Overview

• A peer-reviewed study in the Journal of Archaeological Science by Binghamton University researchers and collaborators presents converging evidence for upright, rope-assisted movement of moai across Rapa Nui.
• High-resolution 3D scans and morphometrics show D-shaped bases and a slight forward tilt that shift the center of mass to allow stepwise advance during controlled rocking.
• A 4.35-ton replica was moved 100 meters in about 40 minutes using three ropes, with reports citing crews ranging from 18 to 40 people for the successful trial.
• Archaeological surveys describe concave, roughly 4.5-meter-wide roads from the Rano Raraku quarry that match the statues’ bases and help stabilize the rocking motion.
• The results align with Rapa Nui oral traditions of statues that “walked” and challenge older accounts that relied on timber rollers or mass deforestation.