The "Mysterious" Split Boulder of Al-Naslaa

The Al-Naslaa rock formation is a remarkable geological and archaeological site located in north-western Saudi Arabia, in the Tabuk region near the Tayma oasis ( 27°13'45.78"N  38°34'18.14"E). First documented in 1883 by Charles Huber, the formation consists of two massive sandstone blocks, approximately nine meters high and seven and a half meters wide, separated by an exceptionally straight vertical fracture which has attracted attention amongst pseudoscientists.

The dominant explanation for the formation of this fracture involves natural geological processes. The rock has been separated along a joint, the natural split beint widened by freeze–thaw weathering, in which water infiltrates small cracks in the rock, freezes and expands, gradually enlarging the fissure over extended periods. Repeated cycles of freezing and melting, combined with wind-driven sand erosion in the desert environment, could account for both the separation of the rock and the smoothness of the fracture surfaces. Seismic activity may also have contributed by expanding pre-existing structural weaknesses within the sandstone.

In addition to its unusual geological features, Al-Naslaa is notable for the presence of prehistoric petroglyphs carved into its surface. These engravings depict animals, human figures, and abstract motifs, providing valuable evidence of the symbolic practices and daily activities of early inhabitants of the region. Animal figures may reflect hunting traditions and the former biodiversity of the area, while human figures often appear in dynamic scenes that suggest ritual, dance, or communal activities. The abstract symbols are generally interpreted as expressions of spiritual or symbolic belief systems. Together, these petroglyphs constitute part of an important archaeological record that contributes to broader understanding of prehistoric culture and social organization in north-western Arabia.

I have said it before (at least once in the context of the submerged Yonaguni formation) that there needs to be more attention paid to the phenomenon of jointing in rock masses in Pseudoarchaeology School.