Wadi Hamra (Gilf Kebir)
Egypt

Wadi Hamra (Gilf Kebir)

Valley with rock engravings and vegetation

Location

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Historical Context

About

Wadi Hamra is situated in the Gilf Kebir region of Egypt, known for its distinctive reddish sand, a result of high iron oxide content. The area is archaeologically significant due to its remarkable rock engravings, which include depictions of wild fauna such as giraffes, gazelles, and antelopes. These petroglyphs suggest a vibrant ecosystem in the past, despite the wadi's current hyper-arid climate. Additionally, the wadi supports vegetation including Acacia raddiana and various shrubs. The presence of these engravings indicates human activity during the Neolithic period, offering insights into the environmental conditions and artistic expressions of that era. This combination of natural and cultural features makes Wadi Hamra a valuable site for understanding early human adaptation and creativity in a challenging landscape.

Paleolithic
Mesolithic
Neolithic
Chalcolithic
Bronze Age
Iron Age
Classical Period
Post-Classical Period
Early Modern Period
Industrial Period
Contemporary Period
Visual Archive

Gallery

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Temporal Epochs

Historical Timeline

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Rock engravings creation

8,000 BCE – 3,000 BCE

Classification

Archaeological Features

Unique architectural and cultural elements found at this historical site

category

Artistic and Decorative Features

Petroglyphs
category

Environmental and Natural Features

Rock Shelters
Knowledge Base

Frequently Asked Questions

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Reference

Details

Country

Egypt

Coordinates

23.85° N, 25.45° E