Petroglyphs, or stone carvings, can be found at other sites in the world, however those found at Al-Jassasiya are considered the most extraordinary in terms of both their quality and their state of preservation. There are roughly 900 examples here. Shapes vary from geometric patterns to representations of animals and boats. There are also some 71 daisy shaped patterns made up of nine small holes around a larger central hole. Some believe they were used for a game called “ailah”. The most common outlines are double rows of seven to nine indentations that look like cups – there are 333 in total. These cups are believed to have been used for another game called “haloosa” or “huwaila” - known in West Africa as “mandala”. Similar carved rows dating back to the 15th century BC can be found in Luxor, Egypt, and others dating back to the 5th century BC can be found in the same place.
The huge number of double rows and daisies, combined with the wide range of variations in the size of cups, casts doubt upon their use as game tables and suggests they are more likely to be symbolic representations carved by an old local culture still waiting to be researched. The most unusual carvings are those of thick-finned fish fossils, boats with numerous oars, scorpions walking on the rocks, donkeys and those depicting the outlines of turtles. These carvings number more than 100.
Mystery surrounds several deep holes that are connected by thin channels through which water can run. It is believed that these designs celebrated the rain, which is rare and precious in Qatar. There are also a few carvings that appear to be groups of stars connected by lines, representing constellations.
The site was first studied in 1961 and at the beginning of the 1970’s. Qatari authorities are currently consulting other experts for further interpretations. Many theories exist, but there is very little compelling evidence to determine the dates of origin of these fascinating carvings.
The vast majority of rocks found in Qatar are sedimentary in nature and karst formations are plentiful in the limestone that abounds. The rock on which these petroglyphs are found is calcified limestone which is relatively soft [when compared to igneous rocks such as granite] and is prone to erosion. This has lead to speculation that the glyphs might not be as old as originally thought. The softness of the rocks would lend them to early civilization easily being able to carve on them. Although this is not the only site in Qatar where this style of glyphs can be found, it is by far the best collection in terms of number and quality. The area is also rich in fossils and many can be found when walking in the wilderness. Keep your eyes open and you will be pleasantly surprised what you can find in the desert!
Consider bringing some snacks and refreshments along with you as there is nothing available nearby. Please remember not to litter the area and to take any garbage back with you. The site is always open and there is no admission fee or control.
DO NOT DEFACE OR DESTROY THE CARVINGS OR ANY OTHER FEATURE THAT YOU MIGHT COME ACROSS IN ANY WAY. THEY ARE THOUSANDS OF YEARS OLD! PRESERVE HISTORY.
Additional information can be found at http://www.heritageofqatar.org/sites/jassasiya.htm
To prove that you have actually visited the site you will be required to submit, via e-mail to the developer: cincolcc(at)gmail.com
1. At the co-ordinates you will find a number of carvings that are known as petroglyphs. If you walk around the outcrop you will see a number of different carvings. How many different types of carvings did you observe?
2. On the lower level at the co-ordinates you will find some rather deep holes that have been carved into the rock. Estimate how deep the deepest one is. You might need to scoop some sand out if it has been windy.
3. An optional photograph of self or group with carvings in background holding GPSr. {Upload with log}
NOTE: You may log your visit prior to approval, but e-mail submissions that do not meet the above criteria will be deleted.
FTF goes to aschachi
