Jan Bartek – AncientPages.com – A newly discovered archaeological site south of Sinai is shedding light on 10,000 years of rock art history. The Egyptian archaeological mission from the Supreme Council for Archaeology and Labor in South Sinai has uncovered the Om Irak Plateau, a previously unknown site of significant historical and artistic importance.
Credit: Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities
According to Mr. Sharif Fathi, Minister of Tourism and Antiquities, this discovery marks a major addition to Egypt’s archaeological landscape. He noted that the Sinai region holds a wealth of unique cultural and human heritage, with this new site offering fresh evidence of successive civilizations in this key area over millennia. The minister also emphasized the Ministry’s dedication to ongoing scientific research, exploration, and documentation using modern international standards.
Credit: Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities
Furthermore, Mr. Fathi highlighted that such discoveries enhance Egypt’s standing in cultural tourism and create new opportunities for growth within this vital sector.
Credit: Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities
Dr. Hisham Laithi, Secretary General of the Supreme Council of Antiquities, highlighted that the recently discovered site is one of the most significant rock art locations to date. He emphasized that the Om Irak Plateau stands out due to its chronological and technical variety in rock carvings, effectively making it an open-air museum. These carvings document the progression of human artistic and symbolic expression from prehistoric times through Islamic periods, granting the site considerable scientific importance.
Credit: Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities
Dr. Laithi also mentioned that research and scientific analysis of these patterns and drawings will continue in the near future. An integrated plan is being developed to ensure both sustainable protection and thorough documentation of the site.
Credit: Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities
Mr. Mohamed Abdel-Badii, head of the Egyptian Archaeological Sector, noted that this discovery forms part of a broader scientific survey aimed at recording rock carvings across southern Sinai—a project guided by Sheikh Rabee Barakat from the Sarabit Al-Khadem region. This collaboration underscores how local communities play a vital role in supporting state efforts to safeguard cultural heritage.
The Om Irak Plateau itself is situated in a sandy area approximately five kilometers northeast of Sarabit Al-Khadem Temple as well as historic copper and turquoise mining sites. Its strategic position overlooks an expansive area stretching north toward Tih Plateau, suggesting it likely served historically as both an observation point and a gathering or resting place for travelers throughout different eras.
The Egyptian mission successfully documented the entire site, which includes a natural sandstone rock shelter located on the eastern side of the plateau. This shelter extends over 100 meters in length, is between two and three meters deep, and has a roof height ranging from approximately one and a half meters to half a meter.
Credit: Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities
The roof of the shelter features numerous red ochre rock drawings depicting various animal scenes and symbols that are still being studied. Additionally, another set of grey drawings was recorded for the first time. These diverse patterns and landscapes, created using different styles and techniques, highlight the site’s artistic richness and unique cultural diversity.
Inside the rock shelter, documentation revealed large quantities of animal remains. This suggests that it was later used as a refuge for humans and livestock seeking protection from harsh weather conditions such as rain, storms, and hail. Stone partitions within the shelter formed separate living units with layers of fire residue between them—evidence pointing to repeated human activity at different times.
Credit: Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities
Archaeological surveys also identified several panoramic storage areas along with pottery fragments dating back to both the Middle Ages and Roman Era (specifically the 3rd century AD). These findings confirm that this site was continuously used for thousands of years.
Credit: Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities
According to the press statement, preliminary studies have categorized the rock patterns and drawings into several chronological groups. The earliest group, located at the entrance of the rock shelter and rendered in red pigment, dates from approximately 10,000 to 5,500 BC. These images depict animals and scenes that offer insight into life during that era.
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Additional carvings illustrate a hunter using a bow to pursue wolves with the help of hounds, shedding light on the lifestyles and economic activities of early human societies. Other sets of carvings feature camels, horses ridden by armed individuals, and various inscriptions. These elements point to later historical periods characterized by diverse cultural interactions within the region.
Furthermore, researchers have documented a collection of Arabic inscriptions at the site. These provide significant evidence for its continued use during early Islamic times and subsequent periods.
Written by Jan Bartek – AncientPages.com Staff Writer