A historic drought in the Amazon has brought an unexpected revelation: ancient rock carvings, believed to be up to 2,000 years old, have re-emerged along the banks of the Rio Negro. These petroglyphs, depicting human faces, animals, and abstract forms, offer a glimpse into the lives of pre-Columbian Indigenous peoples. As water levels hit unprecedented lows, the carvings remind us of the fragile balance between human history and environmental change.
The Historic Drought in the Amazon
The Amazon, often referred to as the lungs of the Earth, has been experiencing one of the most severe droughts in recorded history. Scientists attribute this environmental crisis to the El Niño weather phenomenon and rising ocean temperatures caused by global warming.
In October 2023, the Rio Negro, a tributary of the Amazon River, dropped to a historic low of 12.89 meters. This is the first time in its recorded history that water levels have fallen below 13 meters. The drought has not only impacted ecosystems and communities but also revealed hidden treasures buried under the river’s waters for millennia.
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Discovery of Ancient Rock Carvings
The receding waters unveiled an archaeological marvel at Ponto das Lajes, also known as the Place of Slabs. This site, located near Manaus, Brazil, is home to ancient petroglyphs that were last seen during a severe drought in 2010.
These rock carvings depict a variety of figures, including human faces, animals, and other natural forms. They are believed to have been created between 1,000 and 2,000 years ago by Indigenous communities who once thrived along the Amazon’s banks.
Among the most striking images are anthropomorphic faces, some smiling while others appear solemn. These carvings, etched into the hard stone of the riverbanks, are a testament to the artistry and spiritual beliefs of the region’s ancient inhabitants.
Archaeological Analysis of the Carvings
Archaeologists have begun to study these newly revealed carvings to better understand their origins and purpose. While the exact age of the petroglyphs has not been formally determined, researchers estimate their creation to align with similar carvings found in central Amazonia.
In addition to the carvings, grooves etched into the rocks suggest that the site may have also served as a tool-production area. Carlos Augusto da Silva, an archaeologist from the Federal University of Amazonas, identified 25 groups of carvings on a single rock. He believes these grooves were used to sharpen stone tools, indicating that Ponto das Lajes was not only a ceremonial site but also a hub of daily activity.
Additional Discoveries at the Site
The site has also yielded fragments of ancient ceramics, further enriching our understanding of its historical significance. These ceramic pieces, believed to be thousands of years old, were likely part of large Indigenous settlements that flourished in the region during pre-Columbian times.
Archaeologists have noted the presence of “black soil” at the site, a key indicator of ancient human habitation. This nutrient-rich soil, known as terra preta, is the result of long-term human activity, including farming and waste management. Its discovery at Ponto das Lajes underscores the complexity and sustainability of ancient Amazonian cultures.
The Importance of Preserving Ponto das Lajes
Despite its archaeological significance, Ponto das Lajes has not been formally studied, and much of its history remains a mystery. Local experts and researchers have called for greater respect and conservation of the site, urging the public to treat it as a vital piece of Indigenous heritage.
The carvings and other artifacts are not just historical relics; they are a window into the lives, beliefs, and practices of the Amazon’s ancient inhabitants. As archaeologist Filippo Stampanoni Bassi pointed out, these sites are a reminder of the region’s deep Indigenous history and must be preserved for future generations.
The Role of Climate Change in Archaeology
The re-emergence of the petroglyphs is a stark example of how climate change is reshaping our understanding of history. As environmental conditions shift, hidden archaeological sites are being uncovered around the world. However, this comes with ethical challenges.
While droughts and other extreme weather events can lead to significant discoveries, they also highlight the devastating impact of climate change on ecosystems and human populations. Archaeologists must balance the opportunity to study these sites with the need to address the underlying causes of their exposure.
At Ponto das Lajes, the carvings serve as a poignant reminder of the interconnectedness of human history and the environment. They also underscore the importance of protecting vulnerable cultural sites from both natural and human-induced threats.
Conclusion
The ancient rock carvings revealed by the Amazon drought are more than just artistic expressions; they are a testament to the ingenuity and resilience of the region’s early inhabitants. These petroglyphs, along with the tools, ceramics, and black soil at Ponto das Lajes, offer invaluable insights into a world that existed long before modern civilization. As the climate crisis continues to reshape our planet, preserving these sites becomes not just a scientific responsibility but also a moral one. They are a legacy of human creativity and adaptation that deserves to endure.
