Helan Mountains rock art: Reviving 10,000 years of heritage

April 18 marks the International Day for Monuments and Sites. In the Helan Mountains of Ningxia, this rock art gallery, dating back as early as 10,000 years ago, is being revitalized through scientific conservation and active preservation. Stretching 250 kilometers along the western side of the Yinchuan Plain, the Helan Mountains preserve over 20,000 ancient rock art panels dating back 3,000 to 10,000 years. Featuring more than a hundred figures, including human faces, animal totems, hunting and herding scenes, and symbolic markings, they stand as a precious testimony to the interaction between nomadic and agricultural civilizations in northern China.

Over the years, Ningxia has continuously advanced systematic conservation efforts for the Helan Mountains rock art. Addressing challenges such as natural weathering and rainwater erosion, local authorities have carried out technical research and implemented rock reinforcement and anti-weathering protection projects. Comprehensive surveys and reassessments have been conducted, and digital technologies have been applied to achieve precise positioning, high-definition recording, and permanent archiving. A complete digital archive of the rock art has been established, marking a transition from rescue-oriented conservation to preventive protection.