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the Jara Cave (also known as Djara Cave) in the Bahariya Oasis:
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Location and Origin:
- The Jara Cave is located near the Caravan Trail connecting Farafra Oasis and Assiut in Egypt.
- It originated from rain corrosion into the limestone about 55 million years ago.
- The cave features glittering rocks, which were formed due to water melting the limestone and creating stunning stalactites and stalagmites.
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Archaeological Significance:
- Artifacts and rock art have been found inside the cave, providing evidence of human existence during prehistoric epochs, likely during the late Neolithic period.
- The engravings date back to around 10,200 BCE in parts of the Middle East.
- The icicle-shaped rock formations, produced by mineral precipitation from water dripping through the cave, offer visitors a rich natural spectacle to contemplate.
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Exploration and Rediscovery:
- The cave was initially discovered by an explorer from Germany and later rediscovered by another German explorer at the end of the 20th century.
- With a width of nearly 30 meters and a height of 8 meters, it comprises various animal formations carved on its rocks.
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Unique Features:
- The stalactites hanging down from the cave’s ceiling resemble tree leaves and are a testament to nature’s perfection.
- Gara Cave is unequaled by regional archaeological standards, according to Egyptian archaeologist Hussein Abdel Rahman.
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Visiting and Nearby Attractions:
- Most visits to the cave start in Cairo and often include a trip to the White Desert in the nearby Farafra Depression.
- The White Desert features massive chalk rock formations created by occasional sandstorms.
- Other must-see landmarks in the area include the Golden Mummies Museum, the Tombs of Nobles, and the Alexander The Great Temple in the nearby Bahariya Oasis.
