"Lightning Rock" Archaic Complex(07_001_08Z04X)

3D Model

This complex of boulders have dark patinas and a significant amount of lichen growth. These signs of age obscure several difficult-to-discern abstract petroglyph panels, believed to date to the Archaic Period. Because the several stones appear as if they all broke from one larger parent boulder that fell apart in place, this complex has been erroneously nicknamed “Lightning Rock” under the supposition that a great force like a lightning strike would be needed to break it apart. More likely, however, moisture in fine cracks freezing over thousands or tens of thousands of winters likely slowly split the stone.

The Mesa Prieta Petroglyph Project is a 501(c)(3) community-based non-profit dedicated to education, heritage stewardship, and the preservation of archaeological features, cultural heritage, and the environment of the northern Rio Grande Valley through documentation, education, and outreach. For more information, please visit https://www.mesaprietapetroglyphs.org/