In ancient Hawai'i a system of laws known as kānāwai enforced the social order. Certain people, places, things, and times were sacred -- they were kapu, or forbidden. Kapu (sacred law) regulated fishing, planting, and the harvesting of other resources. Any breaking of kapu disturbed the stability of society, and the punishment was often death. Any fugitive who had broken kapu could seek refuge and forgiveness within the walls of the Puʻuhonua. In addition, in the event that war was declared, families of combatants could seek refuge and safety within the Puʻuhonua and be assured to return home unmolested on cessation of battle regardless of the outcome. Although many pu'uhonua existed in ancient Hawaiʻi, Pu'uhonua o Hōnaunau is the best preserved and most dramatic given the extent of its monumental architecture.
www.nps.gov/puho/learn/historyculture/puuhonua-o-honaunau.htm

Very interesting photos and comment, thanks for sharing ++++++++++++

schitterend refuge Sarah P

....memories ... somewhere among my photos :-)