There is an entire field devoted to the analysis and deciphering of the symbols, many of which are very similar, and I leave that to the experts. Organizations such as the Bradwhaw Foundation study and protect the artistic heritage left us by early mankind.
"The oldest creative graphic expressions known today are paintings and engravings on rock surfaces, in caves and open air sites. Messages, left behind by our early ancestors in all inhabited parts of the world, embrace 40,000 years of history; they constitute the principal means of documentation, before the advent of writing, of the intellectual and cultural life of humankind. Not only are these artistic impulses exceptionally impressive for their beauty, they also reveal thoughts, beliefs, ideologies and the associative and creative faculties of early minds. They reflect the minds ability to abstract, synthesise and idealise. To comprehend how and why these archetypal characteristics emerged is of primary importance for a historical understanding of humanity."
Some of the pictographs are out in the open, easily seen by passers-by, others are less accessible, and some are not available for public viewing. No matter where they are, they raise questions about the people who created them, their culture and beliefs.
In Their Footsteps is one explanation of the migrations to and throughout South America which resulted in the decorative paintings that survive today as rock art.
Listed here, by country, are only a few of the many existing sites. Who knows how many are yet to be discovered by Rupestrian Archaeology?
Argentina
In some areas, the petroglyphs are vanishing. Time, nature and the actions of people who don't know their significance are taking their toll. If you come across a petroglyph or rock art on your travels, please look with your eyes only. Take as many photographs as you like, but don't take from or add anything to the scene.
