Traditionally, it is believed that the Moai statues, which number around 1,000, were constructed by the Polynesians around 900 years ago. However, British writer and explorer Graham Hancock proposes that these statues are much older, suggesting they could date back over 12,000 years.

According to Hancock’s theory, the island was settled long before the Polynesians arrived, with the Moai statues being built by a civilization that existed at the end of the last Ice Age. He links this claim to a study showing that banana plants were present on the island more than 3,000 years ago, which he argues could only have been introduced by humans, possibly a population that arrived 12,000 years ago.

Hancock’s theory builds on his broader hypothesis of a lost Ice Age civilization, which he explores in his Netflix series Ancient Apocalypse. He proposes that the Moai statues were created by this ancient civilization, whose descendants later interacted with the Polynesians.

A key part of Hancock’s argument is the difference in construction techniques between the Moai statues and the platforms on which many of them sit, known as Ahu Vinapu. Hancock claims the platforms are much cruder than the statues, suggesting they were built by a different culture at a later time.

However, his claims have been met with criticism from many archaeologists. Dr. Dale F. Simpson, an expert on Easter Island, points out that similar statues are found on other Pacific islands, such as Hiva Oa and Raivavae, with similar characteristics to the Moai. This, he argues, suggests a connection between the builders, rather than the existence of a lost civilization.

The remote Easter Island, located around 1,200 miles from the nearest landmass, has long been a source of mystery. Hancock draws attention to the placement of the Moai statues, with some positioned on platforms and others scattered randomly across the island. He suggests that some statues may have been moved at a later date, further complicating the understanding of the island’s history.

In support of his theory, Hancock also points to the presence of banana plants on the island 3,000 years ago. He believes these plants could only have arrived through human intervention, supporting the idea of an earlier human settlement on the island. However, archaeologists caution that the banana plant remains found on Easter Island may have settled in older soil layers over time, leading to inaccurate conclusions about their age.

While the debate over the Moai statues’ origins continues, Hancock’s theory has attracted a global following, thanks to his Ancient Apocalypse series. Critics argue that there is insufficient evidence to support his claims, particularly regarding the presence of a pre-Polynesian civilization on Easter Island.

Despite the controversy, Hancock stands by his theory, stating that he believes no evidence rules out the possibility of a human presence on Easter Island as far back as 12,000 years ago. As the debate continues, Hancock is already preparing for a third season of Ancient Apocalypse, which will delve into the mysteries of Ancient Egypt.

With such profound implications, the question of who built the Moai statues and when they were created remains one of history’s most intriguing mysteries.


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