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The Three Stone Pillars

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On the outskirts of Nukuʻalofa, the capital of the Kingdom of Tonga, there stands a three-stone structure called “HAMOAGA.” It is said to be the archway of an ancient royal palace, built by the ancient Tongans using massive stones transported from Wallis Island on large outrigger canoes. Legend has it that this structure was built around the year 1200 AD, during the reign of Tui Tonga, the king who ruled over the various Tongan tribes at the time. Since then, the Kingdom of Tonga has endured many trials, including the Tui Haʻa Takalaua dynasty, the Tuʻi Kanokupolu dynasty, and the current Tupou dynasty. Yet, this majestic and victorious symbol—the Three Stone Pillars (HAMOAGA)—has remained standing through it all, silently witnessing the ups and downs of Tongan history. It is a 5-meter-high triumphal arch constructed from three volcanic rocks. In ancient times, kings were required to pass through this gate before going to war, and only then could they return in victory. It also served as a watchtower. The Three Stone Pillars are known as one of the first places in the world to greet the sunrise, attracting many visitors each year who come to witness this breathtaking moment.

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On the outskirts of Nukuʻalofa, the capital of the Kingdom of Tonga, there stands a three-stone structure called “HAMOAGA.” It is said to be the archway of an ancient royal palace, built by the ancient Tongans using massive stones transported from Wallis Island on large outrigger canoes. Legend has it that this structure was built around the year 1200 AD, during the reign of Tui Tonga, the king who ruled over the various Tongan tribes at the time. Since then, the Kingdom of Tonga has endured many trials, including the Tui Haʻa Takalaua dynasty, the Tuʻi Kanokupolu dynasty, and the current Tupou dynasty. Yet, this majestic and victorious symbol—the Three Stone Pillars (HAMOAGA)—has remained standing through it all, silently witnessing the ups and downs of Tongan history. It is a 5-meter-high triumphal arch constructed from three volcanic rocks. In ancient times, kings were required to pass through this gate before going to war, and only then could they return in victory. It also served as a watchtower. The Three Stone Pillars are known as one of the first places in the world to greet the sunrise, attracting many visitors each year who come to witness this breathtaking moment.