Some people travel to see the world, while others travel to see the ancient world. Archaeology buffs enjoy visiting sites that provide an up-close look at the way things used to be long ago. From the pyramids of Egypt and Peru to the ancient cities of Pompeii and Cahokia, the world offers so many amazing ancient wonders to explore.
Petroglyphs are images etched into stone by ancient peoples around the globe. Often depicting animals, human figures, and abstract symbols, they likely served as a form of communication or religious expression. Unlike pictographs, which are painted onto rock surfaces, petroglyphs are carved directly into stone, making them last longer. Let ancient peoples communicate with you by learning about the best places to see petroglyphs around the world.
Why See Petroglyphs?
Visiting various sites to see stone carvings might seem dull to people who don’t understand their significance. In truth, the petroglyphs are only part of the appeal. They provide deeper insights into the cultures that made them, and they’re often surrounded by nature, including gorgeous plants and colorful wildlife. Sometimes, seeing these carvings involves a hike or other expedition, which is good for your health. Petroglyphs also have an educational element that might spark new ideas in you about art, history, archaeology, and sociology.
Best Places To See Petroglyphs
Hawai’i, USA
You might visit Hawai’i for many reasons: beaches, food and drink, volcanos, and wildlife you won’t see anywhere else. Hawai’i is also one of the richest locations for petroglyphs. The Big Island’s volcanic landscape is home to some of the most intricate and numerous petroglyphs in the world. Ask your hotel or tour guide to point you in the direction of the best places to see petroglyphs on the Big Island.
Arizona, USA
The Southwest United States is abundant with petroglyphs, particularly in Arizona. One of the most famous sites is Petrified Forest National Park, where you can find the Newspaper Rock Petroglyphs. This site has an amazing collection of more than 650 petroglyphs, some of which are estimated to be around 2,000 years old!
Norway
Off to the (occasionally) frozen north! Norway is home to some of the most ancient petroglyphs in Europe. The Alta petroglyphs in Finnmark county, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, date back to 4200-500 BCE. These carvings depict scenes of hunting, fishing, and religious rituals, providing a window into the lives of Norway’s early inhabitants.
Australia
Australia’s rich Aboriginal culture includes numerous petroglyph sites. The Burrup Peninsula in Western Australia is particularly noteworthy, with an estimated one million petroglyphs scattered across its rocky terrain. These carvings are believed to be up to 40,000 years old, making them some of the oldest in the world!
Those are just a few of the best places to see petroglyphs around the world. Ready to start your adventure into antiquity? Book a trip to one of these incredible destinations, and immerse yourself in the rich history and natural beauty of petroglyphs.
