Rock Art Sites of Somaliland, Somalia

In September 2013, CyArk digitally documented Laas Geel, Dhagah Nabi Galay and Dhagah Kureh rock shelters using laser scanning and photogrammetry.  The project was conducted in partnership with the Horn Heritage Charity, a nongovernmental organization that works to protect and promote the archaeological heritage of the Horn of Africa and ICCROM, the International Centre for the Study of the Preservation and Restoration of Cultural Property.  CyArk also provided a training workshop to  heritage professionals from Somaliland. The expedition was made possible through a generous donation from the Government of Switzerland.

The Laas Geel shelters feature poly chrome painted panels that are considered to be some of the oldest known rock art in the Horn of Africa. The scenes depict human figures and animals painted in bright reds, whites, yellows, and sometimes black. In many cases the human figures are shown with arms outstretched in postures that demonstrate reverence and perhaps even worship which may indicate the important status ascribed to cattle in this pastoral culture.