Ikom monoliths

The Ikom monoliths are a series of volcanic-stone monoliths from the area of Ikom, Cross River State, Nigeria. They are estimated to have been made between 200 and 1850 AD.

Numbering about 300 in total, the monoliths are between 0.3 and 1.8 metres (1 and 6 feet) high, and are laid out in some 30 circles located around Alok in the Ikom area of Cross River State. Since Cross River was divided, it now belongs to Akwa Ibom State. The monoliths are phallic in form and some feature stylized faces as well as decorative patterns and inscriptions. Although the carvings have not been deciphered, researchers and linguists believe that the inscriptions may represent a form of writing and visual communication. This writing is often believed to be an ancient form of nsibidi, which would prove its ancient origins.

Exposure to extreme weather conditions have put these monoliths at risk of erosion and deterioration. The monoliths are also located in an area where the nearby people do not commonly see their worth as tourist attractions. They were recently added to the World Monuments Fund's list of sites in danger and are being considered for inclusion onto UNESCO's World Heritage Site list.

A medium-sized example of an Ikom monolith with human facial features can be found in the British Museum's collection.

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