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Easter Island statues
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Easter Island statues
Easter Island statues. Row of megalithic moai statues on Easter Island (Rapa Nui) in the South Pacific. The statues top an ahu (burial platform) and look inland from beside the sea. This is Ahu Tongariki. These megaliths were carved from volcanic rock by the islanders from 400- 1500 AD. Around 1000 statues were carved, with about 100 of these re-erected by archaeologists. They are 3-12 metres tall and weigh up to 85 tonnes. Carving and erection ceased with the deforestation of the island, partly to provide rollers and levers to erect the statues. This led to soil erosion, starvation, civil war and the collapse of the islands culture
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Media ID 6451385
© DAVID NUNUK/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY
Ancient Civilisation Architecture Chilean Easter Island History Of Megalithic Megaliths Moai Monuments Oceania Pacific Rapa Nui Rock Stone Volcanic Carvings Ahu Tongariki
EDITORS COMMENTS
This print showcases the iconic Easter Island statues, known as moai, standing tall on the remote island of Rapa Nui in the South Pacific. The row of megalithic figures adorns Ahu Tongariki, a burial platform overlooking the vast ocean. Carved by skilled islanders between 400 and 1500 AD from volcanic rock, these monumental statues are a testament to an ancient civilization's ingenuity and craftsmanship. Once numbering around 1000, only about 100 moai have been re-erected by archaeologists after centuries of neglect and destruction. These awe-inspiring sculptures range from 3 to 12 meters in height and weigh up to a staggering 85 tonnes each. Unfortunately, their creation came at a great cost – deforestation for resources needed to carve and transport them led to soil erosion, famine, internal conflicts, and ultimately the collapse of Easter Island's once-thriving culture. Beyond their historical significance lies an intriguing link with astronomy; some theories suggest that these stone giants were strategically positioned to align with celestial events or serve as markers for important astronomical observations. As we gaze upon this image captured by Science Photo Library, we are reminded not only of humanity's remarkable ability to create enduring monuments but also of our responsibility towards preserving our fragile planet's natural resources for future generations.
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