Al Jassasiya: Qatar's Historic Rock Art Site Featuring 900 Ancient Carvings

Post by: Omar Nasser

In the northeastern corner of Qatar lies Al Jassasiya, the country’s largest and most significant rock art site. This expansive and barren desert landscape is home to approximately 900 ancient rock carvings, known as petroglyphs, that were created centuries ago, showcasing the rich cultural heritage of the region.

The carvings primarily consist of enigmatic cup marks arranged in various patterns. In addition to these mysterious marks, the site features depictions of sailing ships, various symbols, and other signs. Ferhan Sakal, the head of excavation and site management at Qatar Museums, noted, “Some of the carvings in Al Jassasiya are unique and cannot be found anywhere else.” He pointed out the petroglyphs of ships depicted from a bird’s-eye view, which exemplify “a high degree of creativity and observation skills” displayed by the artists.

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Researchers have proposed various theories regarding the purpose of these cup marks. Some suggest that they may have been used in the ancient board game Mancala, while others believe they served ritualistic functions or were practical tools for sorting pearls. However, Mr. Sakal acknowledged the difficulty in pinpointing their exact purpose: “It is very difficult to answer,” he said, adding that “we have no direct clues about the motifs used in Al Jassasiya.”

Determining the age of the carvings remains a complex challenge, with estimates placing them from the Neolithic period to late Islamic times. Mr. Sakal noted that dating petroglyphs and rock art in general is notoriously challenging. A previous study indicated that there was no evidence of the carvings being more than a few hundred years old, but he emphasized that further research is needed to clarify their origins.

The ship carvings found at Al Jassasiya provide valuable insights into Qatar’s historical fishing and pearling industries. These vessels are typically characterized by pointed sterns and intricate designs, with some anchors present, which indicate traditional maritime practices. Experts have speculated about the significance of the high concentration of ship carvings at the site, suggesting that they may be linked to ancient beliefs about boats as symbols of transition to the afterlife.

Visitors planning to explore Al Jassasiya are advised to take adequate water supplies and wear sun protection, as the site lacks shaded areas. The best times to visit are during sunrise and sunset, and it is conveniently located near Azerbaijani Beach, making it an accessible destination for those interested in exploring Qatar’s rich history and culture.

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