Moai statues originally full figures; population crashed after contact. 950 moai statues originally created as full figures Largest moai measured 35 feet or more in height One unfinished moai in quarry would weigh 180 tons
Roughly 950 moai once stood as complete figures with bodies extending below ground level. Some reached over 30 feet tall, with one unfinished statue weighing an estimated 180 tons 🤯 The island's population has been debated by researchers - while older theories suggested decline following European contact in 1722, recent studies challenge the collapse narrative. Roggeveen was first European arrival, recording diverse population with varied heights and coloring
Key Facts
- 950 moai statues originally created as full figures
- Largest moai measured 35 feet or more in height
- One unfinished moai in quarry would weigh 180 tons
- Population declined from 10,000+ to 111 after European contact
- Roggeveen was first European to arrive, naming island on Easter Sunday 1722
- Log recorded diverse population: tall and short people, various hair colors and skin tones
Related site: Easter Island — view location, images, and history on the Ancient Nerds map.
Source: Exploring Easter Island by Brien Foerster