Claims of 8,000-year-old petroglyph’s discovery in Venezuela raise questions about scientific rigour and Indigenous custodianship

Local officials in Venezuela’s Monagas state have publicized a newly reported petroglyph panel in the Quebrada Seca community of Cedeño, described as potentially up to 8,000 years old, but archaeologists have raised concerns about the lack of thorough analysis and clear custodianship. The carvings—spirals, concentric circles, and humanoid forms—were promoted after Cedeño mayor Daniel Monteverde announced the find on Instagram alongside representatives of Venezuela’s National Land Institute (NLI). Historian Luis Peñalver, associated with the NLI, called it a milestone, while Monteverde said authorities would seek formal certification and begin geolocation and safeguarding protocols as plans for scientific study and dating proceed.

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