An archaeological team has discovered a significant rock shelter in the Umm Arak plateau of Egypt, thanks to the guidance of a local resident, Sheikh Rabie Barakat. This site showcases rock art that predates the era of the Pharaohs, which began around 3100 BC, suggesting that artists were actively creating these works well into the medieval period. The rock shelter measures approximately 100 meters in length and 3 meters in depth, with ceilings reaching up to 1.5 meters.

The artwork found at the shelter provides a glimpse into prehistoric life, with the oldest drawings located at the entrance, dating between 10,000 and 5,500 BC. Notable depictions include a hunter with a bow accompanied by at least two hunting dogs. As the timeline progresses, later scenes illustrate individuals on horses carrying weapons, alongside inscriptions from ancient and medieval times. The rock art also features various geometric shapes including Xs, squares, ovals, and crescent shapes, indicating a diverse artistic expression spanning thousands of years.

This discovery is significant not only for its age but also for what it reveals about the cultural and social practices of ancient inhabitants of the region. The findings will contribute to our understanding of the evolution of artistic expression in ancient Egypt and its continuity through time, shedding light on the connections between prehistoric communities and their environments.