Page 5 - aruba-today-20250122

a5
local Wednesday 22 January 2025

Aruba mysthical sites Episode CCLXXXVII - 287

The narrative shared through Etnia Nativa emphasizes and survival. sive rock formations could have inspired
the importance of reclaiming and recognizing the is- Batholiths often contain cracks, fissures, awe, and their durability might have
land’s cultural roots and heritage, which have often been and erosion-resistant layers, which over made them a symbolic representation of
overshadowed by colonial history. The platform actively time may develop into caves or natural strength, stability, or protection. Archaeo-
engages in promoting the value of rediscovering native overhangs. These formations would offer logical sites near batholiths have been
traditions, history and identity, while highlighting the im- protection from wind, rain, and extreme found to include rock art and lithic ob-
portance of moving beyond colonial influences, submis- temperatures. The walls of these shelters, jects, suggesting that these areas were
sive behavior or over exploitation and decimation of our formed from durable igneous rock like not just places of shelter but also locations
natural resources. granite, would also have provided a de- of spiritual or cultural activity.
fensive advantage, making it harder for Shelters found within them were used for
During this episode we will share with you a little bit of predators to reach. extended periods of time. Early humans
the prehistoric shelters we can still enjoy today. It’s about The massive size and solidity of batho- might have returned to these natural shel-
giant rock boulders (batholiths) that you can find almost liths would have created stable microcli- ters repeatedly, taking advantage of their
everywhere on our island. Some form part of the north- mates, shielding occupants from harsh lasting protection and comfort. In some
coastline and others, “staked boulders”, are recurring environmental conditions. On our island, cases, batholiths might have served as
throughout the islands’ landscape, especially those in batholiths offered a respite. Their dense seasonal homes, particularly for nomadic
and around Santa Cruz district that gained tourist attrac- rock structure absorbs and retains heat groups who moved according to weather
tion qualifications. These large boulders played a very during the day and releases it slowly dur- or food availability.
important role in the lives of our archaic as well as our ing the cooler night, creating a relatively One example of a large batholith is San-
primitive inhabitants. They were formed deep within the stable environment within the shelter. ta Cruz, like “Ayo” and “Casibari” rock
Earth’s crust, and the big rocks associated with them are Batholiths often form highland areas with formations. This region, with its extensive
fragments that broke off due to natural weathering, ero- difficult-to-reach locations and could granite rock formations, would have pro-
sion processes and other phenomena. have provided strategic advantages in vided shelter for generations of Aruba’s
terms of defense. Being on high ground prehistoric inhabitants. The rugged terrain
In prehistoric times, batholiths were important landmarks could make it easier to spot approaching includes cliffs, caves, and outcrops that
for survival. Early humans would have recognized the predators or rivals. The steep terrain and would have offered places to hide or rest,
protective qualities of these massive rock bodies, using difficult access to batholith shelters would while the surrounding area is rich in re-
them as shelters to shield themselves from environmental have deterred animals and other groups sources like water, game, and plant life.q
dangers and predators. Over time, they might have also from encroaching on their territory.
learned to exploit the natural resources surrounding these In addition to providing shelter, batholiths
batholithic areas, making them crucial sites for habitation offered resources such as stone tools and If you liked our native stories and are in-
natural rain water collectors. The exposed terested in learning the true identity of
Aruba, a visit to Etnia Nativa would be
surfaces of a batholith, being made of a fantastic choice. It has been a trend
hard materials like granite, would have setter since 1994, as a co-founder of proj-
been a reliable source of flint or other ects such as Arikok National Park, the Ar-
stones that our ancestors could use for chaeological Museum, and the Artisan
crafting tools, weapons, “metates” or Foundation, among others. Every week,
fire-starting equipment. Some batholiths this newspaper continues to share its
also form near river valleys or areas rich in valuable knowledge. Don’t miss the op-
game, providing a convenient location portunity to feel the island’s spirit through
for hunting or gathering. learning real stories that are not just re-
Some batholiths and their surroundings membered; they resonate, they’re felt,
may have held cultural or spiritual signifi- and they stir souls. Book your visit: What-
cance for primitive inhabitants of our is- sApp +297 592 2702 etnianativa03@
land. The imposing nature of these mas- gmail.com