What is Easter Island?
What is Easter Island? Easter Island is a single volcano peak in the South Pacific Ocean that rises above the water. It is known as Easter Island today because of its discovery by a Dutch sea captain on Easter Sunday in 1722. The islands original name is Te Pito o Te Henua, which means center or navel of the world. The island has a rich and intriguing history. It is not certain where the first inhabitants came from; possibly Polynesia. Once teeming with forests and migratory birds, the island was stripped of its resources in order to provide fuel and transportation during the moving of pagan stone idols. These stone idols, which stand up to 14 feet tall, dot the perimeter of the entire island. They look out to sea as if they are waiting for someones arrival or warding off other spirits. The island is 64 square miles in area and supports one major town of paved roads. Traveling outside of town requires a sturdy vehicle, as the roads are made of dirt for the remainder of the island. The
