3,000-Year-Old Cave Paintings Discovered in Itatiaia National Park in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

[Judi Lynn]

Arkeonews
14 April 2025

In a stunning revelation, a dedicated team of researchers from the National Museum, in collaboration with the Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, the State University of Rio de Janeiro, and Itatiaia National Park, has embarked on an extraordinary journey to explore newly discovered cave paintings hidden within the majestic Serra da Mantiqueira. This breathtaking region, straddling the borders of Rio de Janeiro and Minas Gerais, has long been a site of natural beauty, but now it holds secrets of ancient human expression waiting to be uncovered.

The researchers aim to delve into the mysteries surrounding these remarkable artworks, seeking to determine their age and origins. As they embark on this quest, they are not only uncovering the artistry of a bygone era but also piecing together the story of the people who once inhabited this land. With each stroke of paint, they hope to illuminate a past that has remained shrouded in mystery for millennia.

MaDu Gaspar, a professor in the Archaeology Program at the National Museum, spoke with Agência Brasil about the group’s broader objective of uncovering additional evidence of past human activity in the surrounding landscape. “Regions with shelters and caves featuring rock art are rarely isolated sites. We are committed to exploring this area while also familiarizing ourselves with the landscape—considering routes, paths, and available resources. This is just the beginning of our research. We are revealing a reality that was previously unknown to us, and there is still a long journey ahead,” she stated.

Although the paintings were discovered in 2023, the findings were kept under wraps until recently to allow the park to prepare and restrict visitor access to the site, which is part of a popular hiking trail. One of the initial steps taken was to inform the National Historical and Artistic Heritage Institute (IPHAN). “Archaeological sites are overseen by IPHAN, and all activities—even those carried out by archaeologists—must be authorized by the institute. They are monitoring the site closely to ensure this archaeological discovery receives the attention it deserves,” Gaspar explained.

More:
https://arkeonews.net/3000-year-old-cave-paintings-discovered-in-itatiaia-national-park-in-rio-de-janeiro-brazil/

[NJCher]

1. oddly enough

they are only showing one picture.

I did an image search and couldn't find any others.

[DFW]

2. I'd love to see that if they would permit it

I have to be down there in September. Maybe if I ask early enough?