Easter Island

Easter’s almost here! Decorating eggs, finding the hidden ones and most importantly spending time with loved ones makes Easter a favorite holiday of mine. Being Easter’s just round the bend this article will be on a special Polynesian island off the coast of South America called Easter Island.

Famous for its 887 Moai statues this island has a rich culture that has dazzled archaeologists for years. The most intriguing mystery behind Easter Island and what had up until recently archaeologists and scientists alike scratching their head is how these great Moai statues were moved into place. Some weighing nearly five tons each and before the time of machinery such as cranes how did the Rapa Nui people moved these massive statues into place? Some were moved several miles from where they were made. Just recently a documentary on Easter Island’s mysterious walking Moai was released telling of how these statues had seemingly walked into place. As you may have guessed these statues didn't just walk into place all by themselves as once believed by the island people. They did however walk there with a lot of creativity and a little help. Using three ropes tied to the head of each statue in a sort of triangle shape with one rope directly at the rear of the statue and one on either side, the Rapa Nui people worked in unison to move these massive statues. The base of each Moai was cut at a precise angle that was crucial in moving these statues from place to place. The angle allowed the statues to be rocked from side to side by pulling the ropes in a sequence allowing it to slowly waddle forward and onto its destination. The Moai could only stand if a wedge was placed under the statue in order to flatten the bottom, therefore allowing it to stand on its own. If the Moai fell over during transport if was unable to be stood back up again. The Rapa Nui people had to be very careful not to let the Moai fall over. They had no way of tipping it upright again once tipped over from its overwhelming mass. Another amazing feature that had scientist in awe was how only the fallen statues had a v-shaped cut where its eyes would normally be. Only the standing Moai had finished eyes. Later historians found this to be a key feature in keeping the ropes in the exact needed position to move the statues. It would only then be reshaped into the eyes once placed into finally standing position. Evidence proves this theory to be true. Several statues can be seen left abandoned on the way to the 887 statues that still stand today.

You have to give the Rapa Nui people credit for their creativity. At a time where technology was minimal, creativity was prominent. The mystery of the Moai had lasted hundreds of years and now that the secrets are known it only adds to the beauty that is Easter Island. Happy Easter everyone! I hope you enjoyed reading this article and that you have a nice holiday.