description Iolani Palace Overview
Iolani Palace is a restored royal residence in downtown Honolulu that served as the official home of the Hawaiian monarchy. Completed in 1882 for King Kalakaua, it later housed Queen Liliuokalani and became a central setting in the final years of the Kingdom of Hawaii. Now operated as a museum and National Historic Landmark, it preserves royal rooms, furnishings, and objects associated with Hawaii's sovereign rulers.
help Iolani Palace FAQ
Who lived in the Iolani Palace before it became a museum?
Iolani Palace served as the official residence of the last two monarchs of the Kingdom of Hawaii, King Kalakaua and Queen Liliuokalani. Following the overthrow of the Hawaiian Kingdom in 1893, it functioned as the capitol building for the Republic, Territory, and eventually the State of Hawaii.
When was Iolani Palace built?
Construction of the palace was completed in 1882 under the reign of King Kalakaua. It was built at a cost of over $340,000, an astronomical sum at the time, to showcase Hawaii's modernity to the world.
Can you tour the inside of Iolani Palace?
Yes, the palace is open to the public for guided and self-led tours, operating under the management of the Friends of Iolani Palace. Visitors can view restored rooms featuring original furnishings, including the grand staircase and the imprisonment room where Queen Liliuokalani was confined.
What architectural style is Iolani Palace?
The building is designed in the American Florentine style, making it a unique piece of royal architecture in downtown Honolulu. Notable features include its four corner towers, grand lanais (porches), and intricate detailing that set it apart from other government buildings of its era.
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