Cave Art At Jebel Acacus
Tourism in Libya has started to boom since the United Nations dropped sanctions against it in 2003. Since then, scores of eager travellers from all over the world have been embarking on the country’s shores ready to unlock the mystery and intrigue that makes Libya so fascinating. With an irresistible blend of Arabic, African, and European influences, visitors to Libya will be astounded by the deep-rooted history and customs of the people as well as the stunning natural beauty this North African country is ensconced in.
A wonderful way to combine both these activities is by taking a mini-trip into the Jebel Acacus range. Jebel Acacus – or Tadrart as it is also known – is one of Libya’s most wonderful and intricate natural spectacles. This area is a high and extensive sandstone plateau, which has been eroded into numerous and complex rock formations. The Jebel Acacus terrain is one of the best places to enjoy desert riding and trekking as it boasts awe-inspiring scenery and memorable experiences throughout the entire journey. Jebel Acacus is also home to a significant and impressive collection of cave art. This assortment dates back nearly 12 000 years and is among some of the best works found anywhere else in the world.
The captivating cave art of rock paintings and carvings were first discovered in 1850, but it was only in 1955 when a larger and more extensive discovery was made which led to a detailed and in-depth study on the findings. The cave art depicts all kinds of human activities including hunting, love-making, and various festivities, while other pictures resemble wild and domestic animals, and point to the region having a more temperate climate in the past as well as a higher rainfall.
