Belomorsk petroglyphs, Neolithic rock carvings near Zalavruga, Russian Federation
Belomorsk petroglyphs are Neolithic rock carvings on a stone plateau above marshlands, featuring numerous carved figures of animals, hunters, and scenes from daily activities. The surface displays diverse compositions including people hunting, boats, and various wildlife in different positions and groupings.
These rock carvings date to the 4th and 3rd millennium BC, when prehistoric communities inhabited the White Sea region. They document a long period of human settlement in this northern area.
The carvings show hunting scenes where groups pursue elks, birds, and whales with harpoons, reflecting how people lived and what they relied on for survival. These images reveal the animals and techniques that were central to daily life in this region.
The walk from Vygostrov village to the carvings covers about 2 kilometers and takes you through open terrain. Wear sturdy shoes and be prepared for changing ground conditions, especially during wetter months.
The site may contain some of the earliest depictions of skiing in history, showing five human figures moving alongside a reindeer. These images suggest that people had already developed techniques for traveling over snow and ice during this remote period.
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