On the remote Easter Island, perched in the easternmost part of the Polynesian Triangle, sits an ancient civilization of unique and curious culture and traditions. At the center of this civilization’s ancient history and culture are the mysterious monolithic Moai statues that adorn the coastline. These incredible statues have been the subject of fascination for visitors around the world for centuries, and their mystery continues to beckon travelers today.
The inhabitants of Easter Island, or Rapa Nui as they call it, construct and carve the statues in a process that often takes over a decade to complete. To date, there are over 900 Moai statues scattered around the island including Ahu Tongariki which is one of the largest archaeological sites and contains 15 standing Moai statues.
The Moai statues are made from a type of volcanic rock called basaltic andesite and are believed to be some of the oldest human-made structures in the world. The Moai statues stand between 6-33 feet tall, with most averaging 12-20 feet. These statues are believed to represent ancient ancestors of the Rapa Nui people and are, accordingly, carved with great reverence and care.
These statues were placed around the island’s coastline for several different spiritual and cultural reasons. Many of the Moai statues face inland, representing the connectivity and protection of their ancestral homelands. Meanwhile, some of the Moai statues face seaward, representing their connection to the elements of nature and its power to shape the Rapa Nui culture.
Though the artwork of the Moai statues has been the subject of much intrigue, their point of origin remains shrouded in mystery. The Rapa Nui people have oral histories that tell of the arrival of the mysterious "long-eared" race of travelers who may have been responsible for creating the statues. Experts theorize that this group settled on the island in the 13th or 14th century and began to build and create the Moai statues.
Visitors can explore the Moai statues while taking a road trip around the island. From the Hanga Roa Statuary Park, to Ahu tongariki, and even the Orongo Birdman Cultural Centre, travelers can explore the Moai statues from the comfort of their car. Additionally, those more intrepid visitors can take a scenic walking tour with a local guide who can help offer insight and understanding into their captivating cultures.
Aside from their importance in the Polynesian culture, the Moai statues of Easter Island have become iconic symbols of the region and the travelers who come to observe them. Whether you are interested in the Rapa Nui’s oral histories, in the mystery of the long-eared race, or merely intrigued with the artwork, visiting the Moai statues on Easter Island is an unforgettable experience that will capture your admiration, awe, and curiosity for years to come.
