Ancient Amazon River Stone Carvings Emerge Amid Record Low Water Levels

Ancient Amazon River Stone Carvings Emerge Amid Record Low Water Levels

VoM News Desk | October 25, 2023 | 12:08 PM IST | World | Follow on Google News

Ancient Amazon River Stone Carvings Emerge Amid Record Low Water Levels

Ancient Amazon River Stone Carvings Emerge Amid Record Low Water Levels

Amid a historic drought in the Amazonian region of Brazil, stone carvings from ancient times have resurfaced along the banks of the Rio Negro. These remarkable carvings depict human faces, animals, and various natural forms. The site, known as Ponto das Lajes or “Place of Slabs,” has revealed these engravings as water levels reached record lows due to the severe drought. Researchers estimate that these prehistoric carvings date back between 1,000 and 2,000 years, shedding light on the distant past of the region.

Uncovering Prehistoric Treasures

Archaeologist Jaime de Santana Oliveira, who is involved in the research, noted that while some rock carvings were previously spotted in the area, the current drought has uncovered a more extensive variety of carvings that will be invaluable for researchers studying their origins. One particularly intriguing discovery is the smooth grooves in the rocks, believed to be where Indigenous inhabitants once sharpened their arrows and spears, long before European presence in the region.

The significance of this find lies in the deep history of human occupation and the Indigenous cultures that thrived in the Amazon long before modern times. The carvings offer a glimpse into the tools, artistry, and practices of these ancient communities.

A Drought’s Unveiling

The stone carvings, initially observed in 2010, have become more visible and extensive due to the severity of this year’s drought. The Rio Negro’s water level has dropped significantly, exposing vast expanses of rocks and sandy shores that were previously underwater. Among these discoveries, Oliveira highlighted the sculpture of a human face intricately carved into the rock, marking a captivating addition to the archaeological record.

This emerging treasure trove of Amazonian history has captured the attention of researchers and underscores the importance of preserving and documenting these remarkable precolonial artifacts. It serves as a testament to the ancient cultures that called the Amazon home and the enduring significance of this remarkable region.

Ancient Amazon River Stone Carvings Emerge Amid Record Low Water Levels: In case of rectification of any error in this Article, Visit on Correction Policy or Register your Query:

VoM News Desk

VoM News is an online web portal in jammu Kashmir offers regional, National & global news.