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Egypt

Magharet el Kantara

Neolithic rock art cave in Egypt

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

Magharet el Kantara, also known as Shaw's Cave, is a significant archaeological site located in the Gilf Kebir National Park, Egypt. Discovered in 1935 by explorers Bill Kennedy Shaw and Rupert Harding Newman, this rock art shelter is situated on the south-western slopes of Gilf Kebir. The cave measures 4 meters in height and 15 meters in width, with rock paintings located about half a meter above the ground. These paintings depict a herd of cattle and a farmstead, providing a rare example of cattle paintings in this region. The artwork dates back to the Neolithic period, reflecting the African humid period's favorable climatic conditions, which were substantially different from today's arid environment. The site's rock art and environmental context offer valuable insights into the prehistoric life and climate of the region.

Gallery

Explore photographs of ancient structures, artifacts, and archaeological excavations at Magharet el Kantara

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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

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Plan Your Visit

Details

Country
Egypt
Source
Wikipedia