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Egypt

Cave of Beasts

Neolithic rock shelter with unique 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

About

The Cave of the Beasts, located in the Western Desert of Egypt near the Gilf Kebir Mountains, is a significant Neolithic archaeological site known for its extensive rock paintings. Created over 7,000 years ago, the site features more than 5,000 figures, including unique therianthropic and acephalic mythological creatures. The shelter measures 17 meters wide and 7 meters high. This natural rock shelter offers insights into the Chalcolithic period, when the Sahara was a humid region with a nearby lake. The paintings, made with red, yellow, white, and black pigments, depict human figures, animals, and mysterious beasts, some intentionally disfigured. These artworks provide invaluable clues into the cultural and symbolic world of the period, although their full meaning remains undeciphered.

Gallery

Explore photographs of ancient structures, artifacts, and archaeological excavations at Cave of Beasts

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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
Egypt
Source
Wikipedia