Tonga Royal Palace

　　   The Kingdom of Tonga has a history of over 1,000 years, and its culture once influenced other surrounding island nations. When you visit the capital, Nuku'alofa, seeing the Victorian-style Tonga Royal Palace is an essential activity for every traveler. Built in 1867 by George Tupou I, the entire palace stands facing the sea with a red roof and white walls, nestled among lush green trees, exuding both dignity and tranquility. A Tongan national flag featuring a red cross flies above the palace. The roof is red, the building entirely white, with three floors, and green lawns in front, creating a beautiful and harmonious scene. From George Tupou I, the founder of the Tongan Kingdom, to Taufa'ahau Tupou IV, all were crowned and enthroned here. The last crown prince, Tupouto'a, also announced in 2008 from this very place that he was relinquishing his rights to the people of Tonga, transferring power to Parliament and abandoning the monarchy. Since then, the Kingdom of Tonga ended over 1,000 years of monarchical rule and moved towards democracy.