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Ahu VinapuIf size signified importance, Ahu Vinapu was one of the most important ahu on Easter Island. The precisely fitted large basalt cut slabs have perplexed some archaeologists, in particular Thor Heyerdahl. He points to this Inca-like stone ahu as a key indicator to a distinct Peruvian influence on the island. Few experts disagree that the stonework here is more advanced than that of other ahu on the island. Was this the result of an Inca influence on the island, or was it due to years of experience attained by Rapanui stoneworkers? An average slab here is eight by 5.5 feet (2.5 x 1.7meters) and weighs seven tons. Ahu Akivi | Ahu Tahai | Ahu Tongariki | Ahu Vinapu | Anakena Beach Orongo | Paro | Hanga Roa | Rano Raraku | Terevaka Photos: Liesl Clark Move a Megalith | Dispatches | Explore the Island | Lost Civilization Resources | E-mail | Table of Contents | Easter Island Home Editor's Picks | Previous Sites | Join Us/E-mail | TV/Web Schedule About NOVA | Teachers | Site Map | Shop | Jobs | Search | To print PBS Online | NOVA Online | WGBH © | Updated November 2000 |