’Iolani Palace
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A National Historic Landmark, this is the only state residence of royalty in the U.S. It was built for King David Kalākaua and his queen, Kapi’olani, and was the home of his sister, Queen Lili’uokalani, until her reign ended in 1893. From 1893 to 1968 ’Iolani was the seat of the Hawaiian government. Heavily restored, it includes priceless objects and gorgeous decorative touches.
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1. Gates and Coat of Arms
1. Gates and Coat of ArmsThe Kauikeaouli Gate, which opens onto King Street, was the ceremonial entrance, used only on state occasions. Mounted on its bars is the Hawaiian coat of arms, popular with islanders today in the form of medallions or amulets.
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2. Burial Mound
Although the chiefly burials were moved to the Royal Mausoleum in Nu’uanu in 1865, this mound to one side of the palace remains an object of respect, as some bones may remain.
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3. ’Iolani Barracks
The diminutive but historic barracks for the King’s guard now house the palace shop, ticket office, and video theater. The shop specializes in one-of-a-kind designs based on palace ornaments, such as bookmarks derived from the ornate carving on the palace door hinges.
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4. Central Hall and Staircase
This capacious and distinctive hall has doors to the front and back for light and ventilation, and is hung with royal portraits. The impressive staircase is the work of royal advisor Walter Murray Gibson.
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5. Blue Room
In this first-floor room, the King received guests informally. A portrait of King Louis Philippe of France dominates; the French were among several countries that considered a closer alliance with (or even a take-over of) the Hawaiian kingdom.
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6. Queen Lili’uokalani’s Room
On the second floor is the room where Lili’uokalani was confined for eight months after the overthrow of the monarchy. She was charged with being involved in an insurrection.
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7. King’s Suite
Kalākaua slept in a state bedroom with heavy Victorian furnishings, while in the library he conducted business and played cards. One of the islands’ first telephones is found here.
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8. Throne Room
The king and queen would sit in state and receive their visitors here. In 1895, however, in less happy times for the monarchy, Queen Lili’uokalani was put on trial in these august surroundings.
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9. Dining Room
Formerly the Senate’s meeting place, this much-restored room now contains custom-made sideboards, a commodious dining table, and an array of portraits depicting European heads of state.
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10. Palace Galleries
10. Palace GalleriesThis 50-room basement complex, with its chamberlain’s offices, servants’ quarters, and kitchens, was the heart of the palace. Today, royal treasures are presented here in state-of-the-art displays.
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