Easter island moai statues

The moai are massive monolithic statues on Easter Island, carved by the Rapa Nui people between the 13th and 16th centuries.

About this subject

The moai of Easter Island, Chile, are humanoid figures carved from volcanic rock. They were produced by the Rapa Nui people between 1250 and 1500 AD. Most of the approximately 900 statues stand between 3 and 10 meters tall, weighing up to 82 tons. They represent important ancestors, not gods, and were erected on ceremonial platforms called ahu. It is believed that the moai possessed spiritual power (mana) and protected the community. Easter Island, one of the most isolated places on Earth, was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1995.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many moai are there on Easter Island?

There are about 900 moai scattered across the island, most in varying states of preservation.

How were the moai transported?

The most accepted theory is that they were moved lying on logs and ropes using a rocking motion, known as 'walking'.

Do the moai have complete bodies or just heads?

Many moai have full bodies buried underground. Excavations have revealed torsos and legs below the surface.