SOUTHSIDE SECRETS

Set in stone

Cherry Lee discovers the meaning behind Wong Chuk Hang’s mysterious rock carvings

Amongst the skyscrapers and busy streets you’ll find a small window to the past, over 3,000 years ago to be exact.

Wong Chuk Hang’s ancient carvings are situated next to the Hong Kong University Graduate Association College in Wong Chuk Hang and were first discovered by archaeologists in 1984.

The unique geometric patterns and spiral designs are believed to resemble the eyes of a mythical monster representing one of the deadly sins, Gluttony. These designs can be found on many pieces of Bronze Age pottery.

It was believed that these symbols protected peoples’ homes from harm. Other common carvings including clouds, thunder and other forces of nature to protect homes from unpredictable storms and flooding.

Usually, rock carvings of this nature are found in close proximity to the sea, as many homes during that time were located in coastal areas.

With these carvings so far from the ocean, archaeologists question why they were marked there.

There are many explanations for this. Some say it’s due to the geographical change of the land while others believe it may be due to the stream close by.

Keep your eyes peeled for similar rock carvings scattered around Hong Kong’s coastline including Big Wave Bay, Cheung Chau and Lung Ha Wan.

How to get there: From Ocean Park MTR station head over to Nam Fung Road and up the stairs next to the Hong Kong University Graduate Association College. Once you see a path on the left-hand side, you’ll find the rock carvings at the end.

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