The moai are large stone statues located on Easter Island, known as Rapa Nui. These statues were created by the island's early inhabitants between 1400 and 1650 CE. The moai are characterized by their oversized heads, which represent the ancestors of the islanders and are believed to embody their spiritual power. Made primarily from volcanic tuff, the moai vary in size, with some standing over 30 feet tall. They were typically placed on stone platforms called ahu, which served as burial sites for the individuals they represented. The construction and transportation of these statues remain a subject of fascination and study.