Explore the Moai Up Close

Click to tour around these incredible monuments

Rapa Nui, the indigenous name for Easter Island, is one of the most remote inhabited islands in the world, separated from the coast of Chile by 2,300 miles.  

Ahu Nau Nau

One of the most recognizable sites in Rapa Nui, Ahu Nau Nau is a restored ceremonial platform site with 7 giant moai statues. 

The red hat stones on four of the best preserved moai are known as pukao and can weigh up to 10 tonnes.  

Ahu Nau Nau on the Beach of Anakena in Rapa Nui (2019-01) by CyArkCyArk

The moai and ahu, the stone platforms which they sit atop, are sacred to the people today and are a source of spiritual power. 

Ahu Ura Uranga

In 2017, a restoration program was undertaken at the site of Ahu Ura Uranga to replace fallen stones from the seaward side of the ahu.

Loading 3D model

3D model of Ahu Ature Huki - Rapa Nui by CyArkCyArk

Click to explore the Moai in 3D

Discover more

Discover how CyArk uses 3D documentation to empower local experts.

Find out more about ICOMOS' efforts to increase engagement of cultural heritage in climate action here.

Credits: Story

Professor Jane Downes, ICOMOS Working Group on Cultural Heritage and Climate Change, and Archaeology Institute Director, University of the Highlands and Islands UK.  

Credits: All media
The story featured may in some cases have been created by an independent third party and may not always represent the views of the institutions, listed below, who have supplied the content.
Explore more
Related theme
Heritage on the Edge
Discover how people around the world are using technology to protect their cultural sites against climate change
View theme
Google apps