A new high-resolution 3D model of Rano Raraku quarry on Rapa Nui shows that the island's famous moai statues were crafted by multiple independent groups. Researchers identified 30 distinct quarrying zones, challenging assumptions of centralized production. The findings highlight shared cultural techniques among small family groups.
Rapa Nui, known as Easter Island, is renowned for its hundreds of moai statues, created by Polynesian settlers starting in the 13th century. Archaeological evidence indicates the island supported many small family groups rather than a single political authority, raising questions about how such monumental works were produced.
A study published on November 26, 2025, in PLOS One, led by Carl Philipp Lipo of Binghamton University and colleagues, used over 11,000 photographs to create a detailed 3D reconstruction of Rano Raraku, the main moai quarry. This model revealed 30 separate quarrying areas, each with unique carving styles. Traces of transport routes suggest that partially completed statues were moved along multiple paths away from the site.
These patterns point to a decentralized approach, where carving was handled independently by various groups, reflecting the island's social structure. The researchers argue that similarities among moai stem from shared knowledge rather than coordinated efforts under a hierarchy.
As Lipo and his team explain: "Much of the so-called 'mystery' of Rapa Nui (Easter Island) comes from the lack of openly available, detailed evidence that would allow researchers to evaluate hypotheses and construct explanations. Here, we present the first high-resolution 3D model of the moai quarry at Rano Raraku, the central quarry for nearly 1,000 statues, offering new insights into the organizational and manufacturing processes of these giant megalithic figures."
The work, supported by National Science Foundation grant #2218602, provides a dataset for future research and aids in managing this UNESCO World Heritage site. Similar 3D methods could apply to other archaeological sites.