36 ancient sites found in Fakfak

FAKFAK, Papua: A team of researchers from the UN Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) has discovered 36 sites containing ancient rock paintings in Kokas subdistrict, Fakfak regency, Papua, during a recent archeological expedition.

Fakfak Regent Mahadin Puarada said the 36 paintings would serve as research objects for scientists investigating the mysteries behind the works of art.

Besides the new paintings, the National Institute of Archaeology and the Fakfak Cultural Affairs Office had also identified another 15 sites with 157 ancient painting, he said.

Mahadin said the paintings, drawn on steep cliff faces, consisted of images of palm trees and footprints, and were believed to have been etched by hand and colored with human and fish blood, betel leaf juice and betel lime, making the predominant colors red, brown, black and white.

Although they have existed for hundreds or even thousands of years, the paintings had never faded, he added. --Antara