In the stunning Mandela Mountains of Alxa Right Banner in Inner Mongolia, archaeologists have uncovered an extraordinary collection of over 4,234 ancient rock paintings. These intricate carvings, etched into black basalt, offer a vivid glimpse into the lives of nomadic peoples who thrived in northern China more than 6,000 years ago.
The term \"mandela\" in Mongolian translates to \"to thrive or rise,\" aptly reflecting the rich cultural heritage preserved in these mountain landscapes. The rock paintings depict a variety of scenes, including hunting expeditions, birth celebrations, the daily nomadic lifestyle, and the profound relationship between humans and animals.
Experts believe that these carvings were integral to primitive religious rituals, spanning from the Neolithic period all the way through the Qing Dynasty. Each painting is marked with a unique identity code, allowing visitors to explore and appreciate these artifacts up close by traversing the mountainside on wooden trestles.
To safeguard these invaluable cultural treasures, strict protective measures have been implemented around certain rock outcrops. Vandalism and unauthorized engraving are strictly prohibited, ensuring that future generations can continue to marvel at these remarkable expressions of ancient life.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
