Story perspectives

Rapa Nui Statues 'Walked' Using Ancient Techniques, Study Reveals

10/10/2025

Summary

Story summary

Researchers from Binghamton University revealed how the Rapa Nui people moved moai statues on Easter Island.
They demonstrated that 18 people could "walk" a 4.35-ton replica moai over 100 meters in 40 minutes using a zig-zag motion with ropes.
This method supports Rapa Nui oral traditions about the statues "walking."
The study challenges other theories and highlights the island's road design as supportive of their findings.
Their research was published in the Journal of Archaeological Science.

History

Historical Context

The Rapa Nui people carved over 900 moai statues between 1250 and 1500 CE, believed to represent deified ancestors. Following European contact in the 18th century, ecological challenges led to societal changes, including the toppling of these statues by the late 19th century. Recent research from Binghamton University supports traditional methods of moving these statues, emphasizing the importance of preserving indigenous knowledge.

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Story summary

Researchers from Binghamton University revealed how the Rapa Nui people moved moai statues on Easter Island.
They demonstrated that 18 people could "walk" a 4.35-ton replica moai over 100 meters in 40 minutes using a zig-zag motion with ropes.
This method supports Rapa Nui oral traditions about the statues "walking."
The study challenges other theories and highlights the island's road design as supportive of their findings.
Their research was published in the Journal of Archaeological Science.

1 / 2