The
HA'AMONGA, located on the eastern side of
the island, was built by the King of
Tonga named TU'I TATUI in 1212 A.D. It
was used as a gateway to the Royal
Compound. Standing 16 feet high, 19 feet
wide, and weighing over 35 tons, it is
located in the village called Niutoua.
How they obtained the stones and put them
into position is still a mystery to us.
What's special about the HA'AMONGA is
that not only was it a gateway, but
strange carvings are on top of the stone.
They reveal to the Tongan people when the
shortest and longest day of the year
occur. On those two days the sun is
centered in the arch of the stone.
Details on "Stone Carvings"
page.
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