One of the most iconic historical sites to see in Tonga is the trilithon Ha’amonga’a Maui. We visited Tonga in 2001, and were able to see this interesting structure. What is a trilithon? A trilithon, also called “Three Stones” is a structure consisting of two large vertical stones (posts) supporting a third stone set horizontally across the top (lintel). Some of the more famous trilithons in the world are located in Malta, Osiereion in Egypt, Stonehenge in England, and Ha’amonga’a in Tonga.

What I liked about seeing this structure is the folklore behind it. Legend has it that the monument was made by the folk-hero Maui as the stones were thought to be too large for mortals to handle. Maui obtained them from ‘Uvea Island and placed them in a giant canoe to their resting place in the small village of Niutoua in Tongatapu. (Maybe this folktale should be written about!).

Standing about 17 feet tall, Ha’amonga’a means “a stick with loads on both ends, carried over the shoulder”. The real facts are that historians feel the coral limestone monument was created around 1200 AD by the eleventh Tu’i Tonga (King of Tonga) in honor of his two sons and the gateway to his royal palace, Heketa. The monument is sometimes referred to as the “Stonehenge of the Pacific”. But still…the trilithon is shrouded in mystery and old folklore. Some say it could have been built by ancient Chinese explorers. It has been suggested, like Stonehenge, that there could be some astrological purposes for the rocks. The rocks weigh about 40 tons! How did anyone get those huge stones there?

There is also a leaning stone called the Maka Faakinanga that is said to have served as the king’s throne or a place he could watch for dangerous visitors. 

If you ever get the chance to visit Tonga, this is a must-see!