Dr. Sandra Olsen, Curator-in-Charge Division of Archaeology KU Biodiversity Institute
The Arabian Peninsula is seen by much of the world as terra incognita, particularly concerning its ancient history. Yet, as research begins to penetrate deeper and the archaeological record is more fully documented, it is clear that this region has an extremely rich cultural heritage. As more exploration is conducted, Saudi Arabia is emerging as one of the world’s leaders in rock art. The intricate images portrayed on sandstone outcrops inform about the daily lives of Neolithic hunter-herders, their religious beliefs, weaponry, clothing, domestic breeds and game animals, dating back to 8000 to 10,000 years ago. From later petroglyphs, we can learn about the Arabian horse, how it was ridden, used to pull chariots, and even decorated with henna. This presentation will serve as a window into the ancient Arabian past.
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