While traveling to our next location, we saw many wild horses which roam freely throughout the island
At first glance this archaeological complex is not as impressive as those we visited previously However, Sebastian directed us to the historical significance of this location
This ceremonial center contains a single Moai, named Paro, lying face down in the same position when it was demolished almost two centuries ago. From a distance it looks like an ordinary pile of rock, but it represents a milestone of Moai construction It is the largest moai statue transported from the Rano Raraku quarry and erected successfully on a platform Height: 10 meters & Weight: 80 tons
Even closeup it is difficult to see what it is because it rests face down in the earth	This aerial view from a different angle shows the size of the figure & its fallen topknot
A short distance away is a large round stone 2.5 feet in diameter with special qualities. Te Pito Kura means “navel of light” It is said that this rock, almost spherical and smooth, concentrates a magnetic and supernatural energy called mana According to legend, it was brought by Hotu Matua, the founding king of the Rapanui people from his native land (Hiva)
A few kilometers West of Te Pito Kura is Anakena Beach
According to the island's oral history, Anakena (Hana Rau) is the place where the founding king of the Rapa Nui people Hotu Matua first set foot on the island Anakena is therefore the cradle of Easter Island's history and culture and archeological studies have confirmed the extensive occupation of this site from about 1200 AD This whole area is an archaeological site containing important ceremonial centers above and below ground and other vestiges of great importance for understanding the island's past
This is the Moai of the King	This is the foundation of his house
Some Moai are intact but others are in pieces	Here is one head that had fallen away
The Moai face inland, the standard position	Their backs are to the sea
Anakena, the main sandy beach on the island, is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike The king chose a prime piece of real estate for his residence