Cul Abor Polynesian. Easter Island. E. PacificLIFE Photo Collection
Ever wondered where the giant statues on Easter Island came from? Rano Raraku is a volcanic crater on the southeastern coast of the island where most of the moai were made during the 12th to 15th centuries.
Easter Island by Carl MydansLIFE Photo Collection
The moai were carved straight into volcanic stone in the quarry and then detached and taken to their homes on the island.
Moai in Rapa Nui (2019-01) by CyArkCyArk
Many of the moai at Rano Raraku were never finished or moved and can still be found there in different stages of construction.
Moai Scattered Across the Landscape of Rapa Nui (2019-01) by CyArkCyArk
Around 900 moai were carved at the quarry and 396 still remain there half finished.
Tap to explore
Pan around Rano Raraku to see how many moai you can find.
Two Moai Looking Out Over Rapa Nui (2019-01) by CyArkCyArk
Curiously, one of the moai at Rano Raraku features what looks like a petroglyph (rock art) in the shape of a European sailing ship.
Aerial View of Ahu Nau Nau in Rapa Nui (2019-01) by CyArkCyArk
There are 500 moai around Easter Island (Rapa Nui) and 95% of these came from the quarry at Rano Raraku. With an average weight of 13 tons transporting these around the island was an incredible feat!
