The Anthropological Museum of Rapa Nui, named after Father Sebastián Englert, was established in 1973 to honor the memory of the German missionary who arrived on the island in 1935 and lived there until his death in 1969. In addition to his missionary work, Englert had a deep scientific interest in Rapa Nui culture, analyzing its language, oral traditions, and archaeological heritage.
The museum started with his archaeological collection, which he donated to the Chilean government, and additional pieces have been added over time. It stands as one of the main centers for studying and promoting Rapa Nui culture. The museum's collection comprises over 20,000 objects, including stone tools, ornaments, weapons, and ceramics dating from prehistoric times to the present day. Furthermore, the museum houses the William Mulloy Library, specializing in the Rapa Nui language, with a valuable selection of photographs, documents, and books related to the island's culture.
The museum's permanent exhibition is divided into three rooms. The first room illustrates the geography, fauna, and flora of Rapa Nui, as well as the history of the settlement by the island's first inhabitants. The second room is dedicated to Rapa Nui culture, displaying a wide variety of objects reflecting daily life, traditions, and spirituality of the island's ancient inhabitants. The third room delves into the more recent history of the island and its relationship with Chile.
Since its inception, the museum has undertaken various research projects and restoration efforts of archaeological sites on the island. The museum has gone through several phases, including the construction of suitable infrastructure to house the diverse collections recovered over time. Today, the museum continues to expand its facilities and remains an important center for studies on Rapa Nui culture, working in collaboration with the community to preserve and promote its cultural heritage.
To reach the museum, you can take Miru Street towards the Tāhai viewpoint and continue on Tekarera. Visiting hours are Tuesday to Friday from 9:30 am to 5:30 pm, and on Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays from 9:30 am to 12:30 pm. Admission is free.