Rock Art of Libya

Libya We've saved the best for last. Libya's remarkable collection of Rock Art are considered some of the finest examples in the world. The Wadis and the mountainous region situated above the Libyan desert saw a concentration of migrating and indigenous peoples since palaeolithic times. Neandertals and early hominids created and utilized flake tools here, indigenous peoples took advantage of the (then) moist savannah landscape up to the Mediterranean and eventually an entire civilization was born here, called the Berbers or Barbari. Along the way they marked their way of life on the protecting cliffs and caves leaving us a record unequalled in the ancient world. The earliest images are of rough figure sketches and carvings of wild animals, dating from roughly 10,000 years ago. Next came scenes of domestication, indicating the indigenous peoples settlement. Artwork of great animals no longer in existance in this region such as elephant, giraffe, rhinoceros and great bulls help to date the works. Later periods involve scenes of spiritual dances, figures and wars with other tribes.

Whatever the era, Libya's rock art is very stylized and highly artistic. Their conservation is maintained by government agencies and trusts from abroad, including an associated trust with Italy. The film "The English Patient" increased worldwide interest in Libya and it's beautiful rock art. Luckily this is one of the few places that eco-tourism and archaeological tourism are serving to increase conservation efforts instead of diminishing them.

This concludes your trip through Rock Art in the Roman Empire, be sure to take home a plaque and don't miss the Rock Art of Americas, Celtia and Egypt available in bottom navigation. For more information on each country or region's prehistoric archaeology, visit the Credits page.