A heiau is a traditional Hawaiian temple that served as a place of worship and spiritual practice. These structures were built to honor various deities, known as akua, and were often constructed using local materials like stone and wood. Heiaus varied in size and complexity, ranging from simple altars to large, elaborate temples. Heiaus played a significant role in the cultural and religious life of ancient Hawaiians. They were sites for rituals, offerings, and ceremonies, which were conducted by priests called kahuna. The construction and maintenance of a heiau were considered sacred tasks, reflecting the deep connection between the Hawaiian people and their spirituality.