Ancient carvings, depicting human faces and various figures, intricately etched into stone surfaces up to two millennia ago, have resurfaced along the Amazon riverbanks.

This remarkable discovery comes as a result of an extraordinary drought affecting the Brazilian region, causing water levels in the area to reach unprecedented lows.

These petroglyphs, which encompass depictions of animals and various natural forms, have been unveiled along the shores of the Rio Negro, The Guardian reported.

The archaeological site where they are found is known as the Ponto das Lajes, or the Place of Slabs. Experts estimate that these intricate markings date back to a period ranging from 1,000 to 2,000 years ago.

Interestingly, these carvings were previously glimpsed during a severe drought back in 2010 when the water levels of the Rio Negro plummeted to an all-time low of 13.63 meters.

However, these ancient engravings have once again resurfaced this month, with new markings becoming visible as the receding waters unveil more of the stone’s surface.

This resurgence of the petroglyphs occurs within an exceptionally dry season, which scientists attribute to the El Niño weather pattern and the impact of North Atlantic warming associated with climate change.

In an unprecedented occurrence, the water level of the Rio Negro has dipped below 13 meters for the first time, with a recorded depth of 12.89 meters on Monday.

In addition to the anthropomorphic faces and depictions of water, some of the rocks also exhibit grooves that hint at the site’s past use in the production of stone tools, shedding light on the historical significance of this intriguing archaeological find.

Written by staff