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La Vache Qui Pleure: Ancient Rock Art

Discover ancient Neolithic rock art at La Vache Qui Pleure near Djanet, Algeria, showcasing the Sahara's rich history and cultural heritage.

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La Vache Qui Pleure, or 'The Crying Cow,' is a remarkable Neolithic rock engraving site located about 25 km from Djanet, Algeria. This awe-inspiring monolith features detailed carvings of cattle, offering a glimpse into the lives and environment of ancient Saharan communities over 7,000 years ago.

A brief summary to La vache qui pleure

  • Djanet, DZ

Local tips

  • Visit during sunrise or sunset for the best lighting conditions for photography and to avoid the harsh midday heat.
  • Hire a local Tuareg guide in Djanet to learn about the history and significance of the engravings and the surrounding area.
  • Bring plenty of water, snacks, and sun protection, as the desert environment can be very demanding.
  • Wear comfortable and sturdy shoes suitable for walking on rocky and uneven terrain.
  • Respect the site by not touching the engravings and avoiding any littering to preserve this ancient artwork for future generations.
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Getting There

  • 4x4 Vehicle

    The most practical way to reach La Vache Qui Pleure from Djanet is by hiring a local guide with a 4x4 vehicle, as the site is located in a remote desert area. Arrange transportation in Djanet, typically from the town center. The drive takes approximately 1-1.5 hours, heading south and then east into the Tassili n'Ajjer. The cost for a guided tour and transportation typically ranges from DZD 8,000 to DZD 15,000 per person, depending on the tour operator and included services. Ensure the price includes entry fees to the Tassili n'Ajjer National Park, which are usually around DZD 2,000 per person.

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Discover more about La vache qui pleure

La Vache Qui Pleure, meaning 'The Crying Cow' in French, is an extraordinary rock art site situated in the Tassili n'Ajjer region, approximately 25 kilometers from the oasis town of Djanet in southeastern Algeria. This area, part of the vast Sahara Desert, is a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its stunning landscapes and prehistoric rock art. The site features a large monolith adorned with Neolithic-era engravings dating back over 7,000 years. The carvings depict a small herd of cattle, rendered in bas-relief with remarkable skill and detail. The name 'The Crying Cow' comes from a tear-like marking on one of the cows, leading to various interpretations and local legends about the changing climate and the importance of cattle in the ancient Sahara. These engravings provide valuable insights into the lives of the people who inhabited this region during the Neolithic period, when the Sahara was much wetter and supported a thriving pastoral lifestyle. The artistry and craftsmanship displayed at La Vache Qui Pleure are considered a masterpiece of Neolithic sculpture, attracting researchers, historians, and tourists interested in ancient art and Saharan history. Visiting La Vache Qui Pleure offers a unique opportunity to connect with the distant past and appreciate the rich cultural heritage of the Sahara. The site's remote location and the stark beauty of the surrounding desert enhance the sense of wonder and discovery.

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