| Tongatapu's
rich history
The
archaeologically rich area of Lapaha on the eastern side of the main
island of Tongatapu offers the largest terraced tombs (langi) in the
South Pacific. There are several cleared sites that guides will take
you to visit, explaining the rich history of the Tongan Kings.
About
five miles further along the north point of Tongatapu is the hugely
impressive trilithon of Ha'amonga 'A Maui.This ancient trilithon is a
massive 12-ton stone archway made from three single limestone slabs.
How
they got there and what it was used for is uncertain but two of the
more creditable theories are a gateway to the Royal Gardens or a shrine
for observing the seasons. Other similar but smaller structures can be
found within the Kingdom's ancient empire.
These
attractions are included in our island day trips.
|