Egypt uncovers 10,000-year-old 'open museum' of rock art in South Sinai

Egypt's Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities announced Thursday the discovery of an exceptional archaeological complex in South Sinai, with rock art dating back approximately 10,000 years. The site, located on the Umm Irak Plateau, contains engravings and pigment drawings that document successive civilizations' passage through the region—prompting officials to describe it as a "natural open museum."

Chronological Treasure Trove

Tourism and Antiquities Minister Sherif Fathy stated the discovery "provides fresh evidence of the succession of civilizations that passed through Sinai." Hisham El-Leithy, secretary-general of the Supreme Council of Antiquities, emphasized the site's unique value lies in the wide chronological and technical range of its engravings. The mission documented a 100-meter rock shelter along the plateau's eastern flank containing red and gray pigment depictions of animals and symbols.

From Neolithic Hunters to Islamic Caravans

Mohamed Abdel-Badie, head of Egypt's Antiquities Sector, explained the sandy plateau likely served across eras as a lookout, gathering place, and rest stop. The oldest images, dating roughly 10,000 to 5,500 B.C., portray Neolithic lifestyles—ibex hunting with bows and the use of hunting dogs. Later carvings introduce horses, camels, weapon-bearing figures, and Arabic inscriptions, confirming continued use into the early Islamic period.

Cultural Heritage Momentum

The announcement follows Egypt's recent inauguration of the Grand Egyptian Museum, the world's largest museum dedicated to a single civilization. Cairo continues to regularly unveil major archaeological finds, reflecting both the depth of the nation's ancient heritage and sustained investment in its recovery and presentation.