Palena of Maui facts for kids

Palena was an important leader in ancient Hawaii. He was born around 1120 in Mokae, a place in Hana, on the island of Maui. According to old Hawaiian stories and chants, Palena was a Moʻi, which means he was a powerful king of Maui. These stories suggest he might have been a semi-mythical king, meaning his life is mixed with legends.

It is interesting to note that there was also a female chief named Palena. She was the wife of Panaikaiaiki and the mother of a son named Ahulinuikaʻapeapea.

The Life of King Palena

According to ancient chants, Palena was born around the year 1120. His father was King Haho, and his mother was Kauilaʻanapa. Sometimes, his mother's name is also written as Kauilaianapu. It was quite common for important chiefs in ancient Hawaii to have several names.

Palena married Hikawai, who was his half-sister. Her father was known as Limaloa-Lialea.

Palena had children with Hikawai. Some stories say they had one son named Hanalaʻa. Other legends suggest they had twins, who were called Hanalaʻa-nui and Hanalaʻa-iki.

See also

• In Spanish: Palena de Maui para niños