Project

From 2004 to 2006 WMF partnered with Corporación Nacional Forestal de Chile (CONAF) to redevelop the visitor circulation system within the Rano Raraku quarry site in order to better serve the visiting public while protecting the fragile archaeological resources. The initial work consisted of reviewing a redevelopment proposal prepared by CONAF and the community. (...)

From 2004 to 2006 WMF partnered with Corporación Nacional Forestal de Chile (CONAF) to redevelop the visitor circulation system within the Rano Raraku quarry site in order to better serve the visiting public while protecting the fragile archaeological resources. The initial work consisted of reviewing a redevelopment proposal prepared by CONAF and the community. This was followed by the construction of a new interpretive trail that included improvements to existing trail sections and the implementation of landscape rehabilitation and visitor safety measures. After a test period, additional protective measures and the refinement of technical and logistical strategies were carried out. The completed trail system provides better pedestrian circulation, and for most of its length, it is wheelchair accessible. In addition, it allows for a more effective interpretation, and protection of the cultural landscape.

Planning, design, and construction supervision were carried out by specialized landscape architects from Public Works and Government Services Canada (PWGSC). Construction was undertaken by members of the Rapa Nui community.