Poike

Poike‏‎ is one of the three main volcanic cones that form the island of Easter Island, a special territory of Chile. It is the oldest of these cones and is located in the eastern part of the island.

Geography

Poike‏‎ is the easternmost point of Easter Island, and it is also the highest point of the island's eastern section. The peninsula is characterized by its rugged terrain and steep cliffs, which provide a stark contrast to the relatively flat landscape of the rest of the island.

History

The Poike‏‎ peninsula is believed to have been the first part of Easter Island to be settled by the Rapa Nui people. Archaeological evidence suggests that the area was inhabited as early as the 5th century AD. The peninsula is home to several important archaeological sites, including the Tongariki ceremonial platform and the Rano Raraku quarry, where the island's famous moai statues were carved.

Culture

The Poike‏‎ peninsula is also significant in the cultural history of the Rapa Nui people. According to local legend, the peninsula was the home of the Long Ears, a group of early settlers who were eventually defeated by the Short Ears in a violent conflict. This story is commemorated in the annual Tapati Rapa Nui festival, during which a reenactment of the battle is staged.

Flora and Fauna

The Poike‏‎ peninsula is home to a variety of plant and animal species, many of which are endemic to Easter Island. These include the Toromiro tree, a species of flowering plant that is now extinct in the wild, and the Easter Island Hawk, the island's only native bird of prey.

See also

• Easter Island
• Rapa Nui people
• Moai
• Rano Raraku
• Tongariki