Background

Ingá Stone: An Enigmatic Ancient Enigma

Explore the mysteries of Ingá Stone in Paraíba, Brazil: an ancient rock formation adorned with enigmatic petroglyphs and captivating history.

4.7

The Ingá Stone, or Pedra do Ingá, is an archaeological site in northeast Brazil featuring a large rock formation covered in mysterious petroglyphs. These carvings, believed to be thousands of years old, continue to intrigue researchers and visitors alike, with their true meaning still unknown.

A brief summary to Ingá stone - PB

Local tips

  • Visit during the early morning or late afternoon for the best light to view and photograph the petroglyphs.
  • Wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking on uneven terrain around the site.
  • Check the opening hours in advance, as they may vary.
  • Consider hiring a local guide for deeper insights into the history and significance of the carvings.
widget icon

Getting There

  • Car

    If driving from João Pessoa, take the BR-230 to BR-101, then connect to PB-090 towards Ingá. The Ingá Stone is located at S/N Rodovia PB-090 Zona Rural. The drive is approximately 105 km and takes about 1 hour and 20 minutes. Be mindful of local traffic regulations.

  • Public Transport

    From João Pessoa, take a bus to the city of Ingá. From the Ingá bus station, hire a taxi or 'mototaxi' to the Ingá Stone site, approximately 5 km away on Rodovia PB-090. Confirm the fare before starting your journey. Bus fares from João Pessoa to Ingá can range from R$20 to R$40.

  • Taxi

    From João Pessoa, a taxi directly to Ingá Stone is also an option. The journey is about 105 km and takes around 1 hour and 20 minutes. Expect to pay between R$340 and R$410 for the ride.

Unlock the Best of Ingá stone - PB

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about Ingá stone - PB

Located near the Ingá River, not far from the town of Ingá in Paraíba, Brazil, the Ingá Stone presents a captivating glimpse into the region's distant past. Also known as Itacoatiara do Ingá, the name combines 'ita,' meaning stone in the Tupi language, with a word suggesting 'striped' or 'painted'. The main rock art panel stretches 24 meters long and reaches 3.5 meters in height, showcasing a multitude of non-figurative engravings created by pecking and polishing the stone. The glyphs, estimated to be between 2,000 and 6,000 years old, depict a variety of symbols, including geometric shapes, representations of animals and fruits, possible constellations like Orion and Cygnus, and other unidentifiable figures. Their purpose remains a mystery, sparking numerous theories. Some researchers suggest the carvings represent an ancient form of writing or communication, while others propose a religious or spiritual significance. One hypothesis even suggests the stone served as an ancient astronomical observatory or solar calendar. Despite the uncertainty, the Ingá Stone stands as a significant monument of protected rock art in Brazil, recognized for its artistic and historical importance. While the elements and human disturbance pose a threat to the open-air site, it continues to hold symbolic value for the descendants of the indigenous population and draws curious visitors eager to contemplate its mysteries.

Popular Experiences near Ingá stone - PB

Popular Hotels near Ingá stone - PB

Select Currency