An "ahu" is a traditional stone platform or altar found in the culture of the Rapa Nui people of Easter Island. These structures often serve as burial sites for important individuals and are typically adorned with moai, the iconic stone statues that represent ancestors. The ahu is a significant part of the island's spiritual and cultural heritage.
The construction of an ahu involves carefully arranged stones, often with a flat top where offerings or ceremonies can take place. Each ahu is unique, reflecting the status of the person buried there and the community's beliefs. These structures are vital for understanding the history and traditions of the Rapa Nui civilization.