Twyfelfontein
Rock Art Legacy in the Damara Highlands
Twyfelfontein, meaning “doubtful fountain” or “fountain of doubt”, is a remote valley in Namibia’s Damara Highlands, located about 70 km west of Khorixas. The area was originally inhabited by the Damara people, who referred to it as /Uri-Ais, which means “jumping fountain” in their native language.
In 1947, white settlers moved into the valley, but due to the spring’s limited and unreliable water supply, farming proved unsustainable. The area was later vacated during the Odendaal Plan in 1964, a government policy that forced the relocation of local communities into designated "homelands."
A Rich Collection of Rock Art
Twyfelfontein is best known for its remarkable rock engravings (petroglyphs) and paintings, created by the San (Bushmen) people. Over 2,500 engravings have been recorded at the site, making it one of the largest concentrations of rock art in Africa. The exact age of these artworks is debated, with estimates ranging from 1,000 to 10,000 years old.
These engravings were crafted without metal tools—likely using quartz stones, as many quartz fragments have been found in the area. The images depict:
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Hunting scenes with figures holding bows and arrows
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A variety of wild animals, including zebras, antelopes, giraffes, lions, and even a seal—a surprising find, as the Atlantic coast is about 100 km away
Protection and Recognition
To protect this invaluable heritage, Twyfelfontein was declared a National Monument in 1952, helping to curb the theft and damage of rock art. Today, access to the engravings is only permitted with the help of a registered local guide, ensuring preservation and respectful tourism.
In 2007, Twyfelfontein gained international recognition when it was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, honoring its cultural and archaeological significance.
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