‘Iolani Barracks Was Built to Resemble a European Castle

Hale Koa, or Soldiers’ House, also known as ‘Iolani Barracks, is currently located on the grounds of ‘Iolani Palace. It was completed in 1871 during the reign of King Kamehameha V and was designed by a German architect to resemble a European castle.

The building was constructed out of coral blocks and originally housed the Royal Household Guard of the Hawaiian monarchy. The structure was built on what are now the grounds of the Hawai‘i State Capitol.

In 1965, Hale Koa was taken apart and rebuilt on the grounds of ‘Iolani Palace in order to accommodate the construction of the State Capitol. The building is now used by the Friends of ‘Iolani Palace.

Story and photo by HPU History Professor Douglas Askman, Ph.D.