Hail: The Heritage Commission announced the discovery and documentation of an exceptional group of life-size early rock art engravings, estimated to date back between 11,400 and 12,800 years. The findings were identified at sites south of Al-Nafud Al-Kabir desert in Hail Region, marking a significant archaeological breakthrough.
According to Saudi Press Agency, the work was carried out under the 'Green Arabia Project,' in collaboration with an international research team from several local and global universities and research centers. This discovery represents the earliest scientifically dated phase of rock art in Saudi Arabia, highlighting the Arabian Peninsula's role as an early center of artistic creativity.
The finding contributes significantly to the Kingdom's archaeological record, providing material evidence of the development of rock art and its connection to patterns of life and culture in prehistoric times. It also enhances understanding of the cultural and economic ties that linked the northern Arabian Peninsula with neighboring regions thousands of years ago.
The scientific discovery included the documentation of 176 rock carvings, with 130 being life-size depictions of camels, ibexes, horses, gazelles, and the now extinct auroch. Some carvings reach up to three meters in length and are located in elevated, hard-to-access areas, reflecting the considerable effort and advanced skill of the ancient artists.
The study's results indicated that the documented rock art was produced during a humid climatic phase, dated to between 13,000 and 16,000 years ago. This climate facilitated the survival and geographic expansion of human groups in areas that are today classified as arid.