The ancient Hawaiians used this bowl-shaped crater for very different purposes than it is used for today. They called it Puowaina which means the hill of human sacrifices.
It is believed that the kapu breakers where killed at a hidden heiau. Now the area is sacred for another reason. It is home to the National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific.
Over 33,000 soldiers lie in rest under the endless rows of stone markers. A large marble memorial is dedicated to more soldiers missing in action. The view from Punchbowl is also inspiring. When you first enter Punchbowl, bear to the left and continue up the hill until you reach a lookout that offers views of Diamondhead.
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Latitude: 21.3417501 Longitude: -157.8271717
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