Archaeologists have discovered a previously unknown site of 10,000-year-old rock art on the Sinai Peninsula, revealing a rich history of early human communities.
A groundbreaking discovery has emerged from Egypt, where a remarkably ancient rock art site has been found on the Sinai Peninsula, dating back 10,000 years. The Egyptian Ministry of Antiquities announced the find on social media, highlighting the site's significance and the chronological diversity of the artworks, which have been termed a 'natural open-air museum' by Hisham El-Lahsi, Secretary General of Egypt's Supreme Council of Antiquities. This site showcases an extensive collection of animal paintings as well as symbols painted in red, along with inscriptions in Arabic and Nabataean.
The rock art not only captivates with its aesthetic beauty but also serves as a significant historical document, offering insight into the lifestyle and economic activities of early human communities. Archaeologists have discovered animal remains, charred remnants of fires, and worked stones within the shelter, indicating that it has long served as a refuge for early inhabitants. The site appears to be a window into the past, showcasing the ancient human connection to the environment on the Sinai Peninsula.
This region is currently undergoing development as the Egyptian government constructs a mega-tourism project around Mount Saint Catherine, an important Christian pilgrimage site. However, this initiative has met with resistance from the local Bedouin population. Despite the potential for tourism revenue, concerns about cultural preservation and local livelihoods persist, complicating the future of both the archaeological site and the broader project in the area.
