Shelter with rock paintings in the Poio Novo Valley.

Category: Archaeology > Arte rupestre

District: Leiria > Pombal > Redinha > Canhão dos Poios

Location

The Rock Shelter with rock engravings in the Poio Novo Valley is nestled within a landscape of remarkable natural beauty, in the heart of the Poio Novo Valley. Situated in the surroundings of the Poios Canyon, in the locality of Redinha, municipality of Pombal, in the district of Leiria, this site harmoniously blends with the surrounding environment. The valley offers a natural setting, characterized by its peculiar orography and the vegetation covering its slopes, creating a serene backdrop conducive to the observation of geological and archaeological heritage. The shelter, itself a natural rock formation, integrates perfectly into the local topography.

The Rock Engravings: Testimonies of a Distant Past

Within this natural shelter, rock engravings are found, silent testimonies of communities that inhabited this region thousands of years ago. These engravings, inscribed directly into the rock, represent a primordial form of communication and artistic expression of prehistoric peoples. Through lines and figures, the ancient inhabitants left records that may include representations of daily life, diverse symbolisms, or narratives related to their beliefs and rituals. Observing these marks allows a direct connection with the original creators, offering a fascinating glimpse into their worldview and cultural legacy.

The Natural Shelter and Its Function

The rock shelter itself, a natural formation offering protection from the elements, was chosen by ancient peoples not only as a refuge but also as a preferred location for the creation of their art. The rock walls became the canvas for the engravings, preserving them over countless centuries. The interaction between the geological formation and human expression defines the uniqueness of this site, where nature provided the canvas and history inscribed its first pages. This natural setting underscores the adaptability and aesthetic sensibility of the civilizations that settled here.

License: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/deed.pt