VIDEO 8-Mile-Long Canvas of 12,600-Year-Old Rock Art Discovered in Amazon Rainforest | Ancient Architects

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8-Mile-Long Canvas of 12,600-Year-Old Rock Art Discovered in Amazon Rainforest In a remarkable archaeological discovery, researchers have uncovered an extensive 8-mile (approximately 13 kilometers) canvas of rock art in the Amazon Rainforest, believed to be around 12,600 years old. This incredible finding occurred in the Serrania La Lindosa area of the Colombian Amazon and was published in the journal Quaternary International. The art, which dates back to the end of the last Ice Age, showcases a variety of intricate designs, including human handprints, animals, and geometric forms, primarily created using red ochre.

Historical Significance​

This discovery is particularly significant as it sheds light on the lives of some of the earliest inhabitants of the western Amazon. The art reveals depictions of various extinct megafauna, such as large herbivores and other animals, alongside scenes of human activity—hunting and interactions with their environment. These findings challenge previous notions regarding the extinction of these species and suggest they lived alongside humans during a time when the Amazon was transitioning from a savanna landscape into the tropical rainforest we recognize today.

Rich Imagery and Cultural Insight​

The rock art includes a plethora of creatures—deer, bats, alligators, and even three-toed mammals resembling modern elephants. Researchers, including Mark Robinson from the University of Exeter, emphasized that this art provides a vibrant insight into the social and dietary practices of these ancient communities, which relied on a diverse diet that included fruits, fish, and various animal species. Researchers propose that the paintings are not merely artistic expressions, but also play a crucial role in understanding how these early populations interacted with and transformed their environment.

Broader Context​

The timing of this discovery is also noteworthy, as it coincides with ongoing debates about the causes of the megafaunal extinction during the Younger Dryas period. Speculations about this extinction range from climate change to human hunting or cosmic impacts. The newly discovered art, featuring animals that thrived just before this extinction, suggests that further research could illuminate new patterns of prehistoric life and the impact of early human societies on their ecosystems. Moreover, this discovery aligns with the release of a new documentary titled Jungle Mystery: Lost Kingdoms of the Amazon, which promises to further explore the mysteries of this rich region's history.

Conclusion​

This extraordinary discovery elevates our understanding of early human life in South America, demonstrating that art was not only a personal expression but also a vital aspect of cultural identity and social cohesion. The hidden heritage of the Amazon is slowly unveiling, and there's much more to uncover about the lives that flourished in this lush environment long before our time. What do you think about this discovery? Are there any specific aspects of ancient history you'd like to explore further? Share your thoughts below!