The South African Archaeological Society has launched a series of high-definition virtual tours of some of the most remote and endangered San rock art sites in the Cederberg Mountains. Using advanced photogrammetry and 360-degree imaging, the initiative allows the public to explore sites like Sevilla and Warmhoek, which are often difficult to access. The project aims to balance heritage tourism with conservation, reducing physical foot traffic at sensitive archaeological locations.
The Cederberg region is home to one of the highest concentrations of rock art in the world, featuring imagery from San hunter-gatherers and Khoe pastoralists. By digitizing these sites, researchers hope to preserve a permanent record of the art, which is currently threatened by climate change and weathering. The virtual platform also provides educational modules on the spiritual significance of the paintings, as shared by contemporary San descendant communities.
