Site of Aït Ouaazik, Prehistoric rock art site in Anti Atlas Mountains, Morocco
Aït Ouaazik is an archaeological site in the Anti Atlas Mountains with thousands of engraved sandstone slabs. The carvings depict wildlife including elephants, antelopes, rhinoceroses, and giraffes that once roamed this region.
The site dates to the Neolithic period approximately 6000 years ago and preserves evidence of early human settlements. The engravings were created in locations where rivers once flowed, providing water for ancient communities.
The rock carvings show animals and geometric shapes that reveal how people once viewed the natural world around them. Different carving techniques are still visible today, showing the skill of those who created these images long ago.
The site lies in a canyon that requires local guidance to navigate safely through the area. Sturdy footwear is essential as the paths wind through narrow passages between rock formations.
The engravings display continuous loop patterns and organic designs that set them apart from other rock art sites across Northwest Africa. These distinctive patterns suggest that ancient artists in this area developed their own visual language.
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