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Botswana

Manyana Rock Paintings

Rock art site with Khoikhoi or San paintings.

Time Periods

Paleolithic

Paleolithic

Mesolithic

Mesolithic

Neolithic

Neolithic

Chalcolithic

Chalcolithic

Bronze Age

Bronze Age

Iron Age

Iron Age

Classical Period

Classical Period

Post-Classical Period

Post-Classical Period

Early Modern Period

Early Modern Period

Industrial Period

Industrial Period

Contemporary Period

Contemporary Period

Location

About

The Manyana Rock Paintings site, located at the Kolobeng hills in Botswana, is a significant archaeological site known for its Khoikhoi or San rock art created between 1100 CE and 1700 CE. The artwork, including depictions of mammals, plants, and abstract shapes, was likely part of religious rituals. The site also holds historical significance as Mmasechele Cave, where Sechele I's wife sought refuge during the 1852 Battle of Dimawe. Excavations at the site have unearthed over 7,000 Later Stone Age artifacts, including debitage and tools, as well as Iron Age pottery, indicating early habitation and subsequent contact with Iron Age herders. The paintings and artifacts provide valuable insights into the cultural and historical transitions in the region.

Gallery

Explore photographs of ancient structures, artifacts, and archaeological excavations at Manyana Rock Paintings

FileAbstract_shape_Mayana_Rock_Paintings.jpg
FileFour_Giraffes_Mayana_Rock_Paintings_2.jpg
FileGemsbok_Mayana_Rock_Paintings.jpg

Archaeological Features

Explore the unique architectural and cultural elements found at this historical site

Artistic and Decorative Features

Cave Paintings

Environmental and Natural Features

Rock Shelters

Historical Timeline

Journey through time and discover key events in this site's archaeological history

Plan Your Visit

Details

Country
Botswana
Source
Wikipedia