Mystery petroglyphs dating back at least 500 years reappear on public beach
Mystery over 500-year-old petroglyphs that have washed up on a beach
- Ancient Hawaiian petroglyphs, some dating back at least 500 years, have re-emerged on Oahu's coastline, revealing over two dozen human-like stick figures.
- Seasonal ocean swells cleared the sand, making the entire 35-metre panel fully visible for the first time since its discovery nine years ago at a US Army recreation centre in Waianae.
- Native Hawaiian cultural practitioner Glen Kila interprets the carvings as a message from ancestors, potentially about rising ocean levels, and views their protection by the Army as a positive shift in community relations.
- Army officials are balancing the preservation of these historical carvings with ensuring public accessibility on the beach.
- The temporary exposure of the 26 identified petroglyphs is attributed to natural beach fluctuations and wave action.