| Abstract: |
Europeans discovered Rapa Nui (Easter Island) in 1722, but current research indicates that the initial colonization of the island occurred c.AD 800-1000. Ceremonial platforms (ahu) associated with giant anthropomorphic statues (moai) are numerous on Rapa Nui. Restoration and reconstruction, as well as additions of new features, occurred both during prehistory as well as in the contemporary society. During the latest prehistoric phase on Rapa Nui, the ceremonial sites with associated statues suffered destruction during the "civil war" of the "Huri Moai" period (c.AD 1600-1800). It was not until the beginning of the 1960s that the restoration and reconstruction of sites started again. This time it was with international interests and support from UNESCO. A few of the over 300 monuments have since then been restored and their statues re-erected. The restoration work has created positive aspects for Rapanui people in terms of increasing tourism and reinforcing cultural indentity. But it has also raised questions concerning how to restore, who should do it, and for whom should it be done? These are issues I address in this paper.
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