Pedra Pintada

Pedra Pintada is a rock located in Brazil on the territory of San Marcos (Indian reservation) in the state of Roraima, and this place is one of the most important archaeological sites in northern Brazil. The rock is famous for the cave paintings left by the Paleoindians, more than 11 thousand years ago.

The history of the archaeological monument

Pedra Pintada was studied by Anna Kertenius Roosevelt, an American professor of anthropology and archaeologist. The main work was carried out in the period from 1900 to 1992, with the support of the University of Illinois at Chicago, where Anna Roosevelt worked, as well as the Field Museum. It was thanks to the archaeological work carried out in the 90s of the last century that it was possible to establish that the Amazon basin was inhabited much earlier than previously assumed. The rock itself was formed about 11,000 years ago. The lower levels of Pedra Pintada were investigated by thermoluminescence method.

What to see

This Pedra Pintada rock is one of the most visited places in the State of Roraima by tourists.  Pedra Pintada is located on the territory of the Monte Alegre State Park, which was founded in 2001. The most interesting thing on the territory of the rock, in addition to the magnificent view of its peaks, are the drawings, among which you can recognize:

• children's, women's and men's figures;
• palms;
• scenes from everyday life and hunting.

But many examples of rock art still baffle scientists when trying to decipher them.

In addition to paintings, ancient objects have also been discovered on the territory of the rock, among which are:

• ceramic potsherds;
• axes and spearheads;
• dyes for drawings;
• skeletons of animals and fish;
• traces of seeds.

It was thanks to these findings that scientists concluded that the Paleoindians were hunter-gatherers. Lithium has also been discovered in the caves of Pedra Pintada Rock.

How to get

Boa Vista is the closest town to the rock. From there, you can reach the national landmark of Brazil by private car along the BR-174 road, heading northwest, and the trip will take about 2 hours and 30 minutes. Another option is to sign up for a group tour, which is organized by most guides and travel agencies operating in Boa Vista.

Important! Due to the fact that the attraction is located on the territory of the Indian reservation, it is required to obtain permission to visit Pedra Pintada. Permission from FUNAI (National Indian Foundation) is required.