Unique, prehistoric rock art drawings have been discovered in the Andriamamelo Cave in western Madagascar.
The dramatic discoveries contained hints at some remarkable cultural connections.
First, scenes depicted in some cases linked up fairly directly to Egyptian religious motifs from the Ptolemaic period (300-30 BCE)
Second, other inferences from symbols and writing on the walls showed connections to the Ethiopian and Afro-Arab worlds.
Finally, prevalent symbology and motifs evoked a two-millennia-old cave art style from Borneo.
At least three extinct animals of Madagascar (thought to have been extinct for many centuries) may be depicted – a giant sloth lemur, elephant birds and a giant tortoise.
The art is about 2,000 years old – dating back to the time of Cleopatra or before.