A Massive Rock 4,000-year-old Monolith Split with Laser-Like Precision
The massive Al-Naslaa rock formation in Saudi Arabia, split with striking precision down the middle, has fascinated onlookers for centuries. Not only does each half of the stone remain perfectly balanced on separate bases, but its surfaces also display intriguing symbols. This incredible geological feature draws thousands of visitors yearly, captivated by its flawless symmetry and balance, while many propose various theories to explain its mysterious origins.
First documented by Charles Huver in 1883, the Al-Naslaa formation has since spurred extensive debate among experts, with many suggesting it may have been crafted with tools of remarkable precision, possibly far ahead of its time. Archaeological findings reveal that the region around Al-Naslaa has been inhabited since the Bronze Age, between 3000 BC and 1200 BC, adding a further layer of intrigue to this ancient wonder.
In 2010, the Saudi Commission for Tourism and National Heritage announced a significant discovery near Tayma—a rock bearing a hieroglyphic inscription of Pharaoh Ramses III. This finding led researchers to propose that Tayma may have once been part of a major trade route connecting the Red Sea coast with the Nile Valley.
As for the enigmatic split in the Al-Naslaa rock, some researchers suggest natural explanations. One widely accepted theory proposes that a subtle shift in the ground beneath one of the rock’s supports may have caused the fracture. Another hypothesis suggests that the cut could be the result of a volcanic dike or the presence of a softer mineral within the rock that eventually solidified and led to the split.
Other theories suggest that the split in the Al-Naslaa rock may be due to an ancient pressure crevice formed by one side of the rock pressing against the other. Alternatively, some believe it could be the result of an ancient fault line, as fault movement typically weakens rock in specific zones, making it more prone to erosion than the surrounding material.
These theories, however, are just a few among many that seek to unravel the mystery of Al-Naslaa’s precisely divided stones. What remains clear is that this remarkably precise split continues to raise more questions than it answers.
Historically, the earliest known mention of the oasis city of Tayma appears as “Tiamat” in Assyrian inscriptions dating back to the 8th century BC. At that time, Tayma had grown into a prosperous city, celebrated for its abundant water wells and stunning architecture.
Archaeologists have also discovered cuneiform inscriptions, possibly dating from the 6th century BC in the oasis city. Interestingly at this time, Babylonian king Nabonidus retired to Tayma for worship and search for prophecies, entrusting the reign of Babylon to his son, Belshazzar.
The region is also rich in history, being mentioned several times in the Old Testament, under the biblical name of Tema, one of the sons of Ishmael.
