Archeologists have uncovered mysterious doodles etched into rocks, raising questions about their origin and purpose. The doodles, which depict animals and geometric shapes, were discovered in a remote Sahara desert area in southern Algeria.
Uncovering the Doodles
A team was discovered by archeologists from the University of Tamanrasset, who were surveying the area in search of rock art. They stumbled upon the doodles etched into a flat rock surface.
The doodles, estimated to be between 5,000 and 9,000 years old, are unlike any other rock art in the area. The images are simple, yet striking, featuring a variety of animal shapes and geometric designs.
Claudio Giovannini/ AFP/ Getty Images | Doodling isn't always linear
The Origin and Purpose of the Doodles
The origin and purpose of the doodles are currently unknown, and researchers are left to speculate on their meaning. Some believe the images may have been created as part of a ritual or religious practice, while others suggest that they may have been used for communication or as a form of record-keeping.
Others believe that children or young adults may have created the images as a form of play or artistic expression. The simplicity of the images and the fact that they are etched into a flat surface suggests that they may have been created using rudimentary tools, such as sharpened sticks or rocks.
The Significance of the Discovery
The discovery of the doodles is significant for several reasons. For starters, it sheds new light on the history and culture of the Sahara Desert, which has long been considered a barren and inhospitable region.
It also highlights the importance of continued archeological research in the area. Despite its remote location, the Sahara Desert has been inhabited by humans for thousands of years, and there is still much to learn about the region's rich history.
The discovery also serves as a reminder of the enduring human desire to create and express oneself through art. Even in the most challenging environments, humans have found ways to leave their mark on the world. The doodles in southern Algeria are a testament to that creativity and ingenuity.
ARCHiOX/ Bodleian Libraries | Doodling is underrated as an art form
The Future of the Doodles
The discovery of the doodles has sparked renewed interest in the region, and researchers are planning to conduct further surveys to uncover more rock art and artifacts. There is also the possibility that the doodles may be added to the UNESCO World Heritage list, which would help to protect and preserve them for future generations.
AncientPages/ Shutterstock | Scientists have also found that doodling actually improves memory
Bottom line
The discovery of mysterious doodles in southern Algeria is intriguing and raises more questions than answers. While the origin and purpose of the images may never be fully understood, their discovery serves as a reminder of the enduring human desire to create and express oneself through art, even in the most challenging of environments.
As research into the region continues, it is likely that more discoveries will be made, shedding new light on the rich history and culture of the Sahara Desert. The doodles remain an enigma, waiting to be unlocked and understood by future archeologists and historians.
