Today, we're taking a look at one of the world's most mysterious and legendary islands - Easter Island. This Chilean territory is a remote volcanic island in Polynesia and is famed for archaeological sites, including nearly 900 monumental statues called Moai, created by inhabitants during the 13th–16th centuries. The moai are carved human figures with oversized heads, often resting on massive stone pedestals called ahus - and we'll be taking a look at a number of examples in this update along with a variety of sights from all around the island throughout the entry. We'll begin however with an aerial view over the island - the village and capital of Hanga Roa can be seen in the top right corner - the rest of the island however is sparsely populated with only small farms, palm trees, and the occasional Moai site dotting the landscape.

The Moai are truly extraordinary - and we get our first look at them at the Rano Raraku archeological site and crater. This "Moai Graveyard" is home to some of the island's most well-preserved examples and served as a quarry for centuries for the locals to build these legendary and mysterious statues.

The Moai are one of the world's most mysterious man-made objects - and their creation has often brought more questions than answers. It's often believed by experts that the Moai were sculpted on large piles of wood or rocks, and then raised using a system of ropes. The locals would then carefully attach the ropes to the top of the Moai's heads and move them across the island in a "walking" motion to various locations by the locals, as depicted below in a scene from approximately 1500 AD.

Another look over Rano Raraku in current times - with these Moai surrounded by blooming flowers, palm trees, and wild horses - it's quite the beautiful sight.

We'll conclude with a trip to famous Anakena Beach, one of Easter Island's most famous destinations. Home to one of the island's most well-preserved ahus, the seven Moai here are said to be protecting the locals from the sea and are among the island's most photographed locations. The setting makes it a must visit with wild horses and palms dotting the landscape, surrounding by a stunning backdrop of crashing waves and white coral sands.

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-korver