The flag of Easter Island (Spanish: Bandera de Isla de Pascua; Rapanui: Te Reva Reimiro) is a simple yet evocative design, predominantly white and adorned with a central reimiro, a red-painted wooden pectoral ornament historically worn by the people of Rapa Nui. The reimiro serves as a potent symbol of mana, signifying power and spiritual significance in the island's cultural context. Flanking the reimiro on either side are two anthropomorphic figures, representing the Ariki, or chiefs and nobles, integral to the island's societal structure. The minimalistic yet profound elements of the flag encapsulate the island's rich cultural heritage, paying homage to the ancestral traditions, leadership, and spiritual values of the Rapa Nui people.
| Proportion: | 5:8 |
|---|---|
| Adopted: | May 9, 2006 |
| Flag image: | Animated GIF (25 frames looped) |
Easter Island, or Rapa Nui, is a special region of Chile and a remote and iconic Polynesian island located in the southeastern Pacific Ocean. Famous for its colossal stone statues called moai, the island's seat is Hanga Roa. Despite its small size, with a land area of just 163.6 square kilometers, Easter Island holds immense cultural and historical significance. The population of around 7,750 (2017) inhabitants primarily descends from Polynesian settlers. The island is renowned for its archaeological sites, including the mysterious Moai statues that were carved from volcanic rock by the Rapa Nui people centuries ago. The Polynesian culture, language, and traditions are integral to daily life, and the island has become a UNESCO World Heritage site, drawing visitors with its unique blend of natural beauty and enigmatic archaeological wonders. The challenges of preserving the delicate balance between tourism and cultural heritage make Easter Island a fascinating and enigmatic destination in the vastness of the Pacific.
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