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1h ago

Study Confirms Easter Island's Moai Were Transported Upright by 'Walking'

Peer-reviewed tests with a 4.35-ton replica show a rope-driven rocking method tailored to moai design features, with concave roads that guide movement.

A research team has confirmed via 3D modeling and field experiments that the ancient people of Rapa Nui "walked" the iconic moai statues.
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(Image Credit: F. Rawath/Unsplash)

Overview

  • A Journal of Archaeological Science paper by Carl P. Lipo and Terry L. Hunt analyzes about 962 statues, including 62 along ancient roadways.
  • High-resolution 3D models identify wide D-shaped bases and a forward lean that enable a controlled zig-zag gait.
  • A volunteer team of 18 moved a 4.35-ton replica 100 meters in 40 minutes using alternating rope pulls.
  • Island roads measuring roughly 4.5 meters wide with a concave profile appear purpose-built to stabilize and steer upright transport.
  • The findings challenge prone-roller theories and align with Rapa Nui oral traditions, with the authors inviting critics to present disconfirming evidence.