The history of Easter Island, also known as Rapa Nui in the local language, dates back more than a thousand years, when the first Polynesians arrived on the island. Over many years, the Rapanui developed a unique culture, including the construction of large stone statues called moai.
In the 18th century, the island was sighted by the Dutch explorer Jacob Roggeveen, who named it Easter Island because he arrived on Easter Sunday.
The island was colonized by Chile in 1888 and today it is a popular tourist destination due to its beaches, volcanoes and archeological sites.
The Rapanui culture is still very present on the island and is an important part of the identity of its inhabitants.
