 |
Easter Island (Rapa Nui) is the most isolated inhabited island on earth. This lonely island contains one of the world's most spectacular .collections of archaeological wonders - the moai or stone statues. These were largely carved at a single quarry, rano raraku, where they can still be seen in various states of completion. Many.mysteries remain, however, regarding how they were transportedmiles across the rugged terrain of the volcanic island, and how they were finally errected on the ceremonial platforms (ahu). All the moai (except those remaining to be transported from the quarry) were toppled during tribal battles soon after the first European discovery of the island in 1722, but some, notably at Tahai, Tongariki, and Ahu Aviki have been restored in modern times. These form a major subject of the photos in this gallery, which were .taken during a visit in August 2006.
For more information about this fascinating island, and to help ensure the preservation of its priceless heritage, visit the Easter Island Foundation.
|
