Tongariki: Largest monument with 15 Moai, iconic Easter Island site. Tongariki is Easter Island's largest monument with 15 Moai statues It is the most photographed and iconic site associated with the island's cultural heritage Located directly across from Rano Raraku, both sites can be visited in one day
Tongariki is Easter Island's largest monument — 15 Moai statues. These toppled figures were restored in the 1990s after decades scattered by a tsunami in 1960. Some have different features, and they stand at the largest ceremonial platform in Polynesia, facing inland toward Rano Raraku.
Key Facts
- Tongariki is Easter Island's largest monument with 15 Moai statues
- It is the most photographed and iconic site associated with the island's cultural heritage
- Located directly across from Rano Raraku, both sites can be visited in one day
- One Moai was taken to Japan, California, and New York City before being returned
- The Moai range in size, shape, and features with some having more pronounced noses and lips
- Some have red stone hats (pukao) while others do not
Related site: Ahu Tongariki — view location, images, and history on the Ancient Nerds map.
Source: Easter Island Adventure: Moai at Sunrise + Hidden Caves by Wandering Wolf