Ever wanted to explore some of the world’s most fascinating natural wonders? Uluru is by far one of the most popular natural sights the world over – and what’s more, it’s regarded as highly sacred! If you’re already traveling down under or want to know more about this majestic, mountainous monument, here are some fun facts about Uluru you’ll want to remember.
1. What is Uluru?
If you have never heard of Uluru, you may have heard of it under its previous name, Ayers Rock! It is a sacred site in Australia that has incredible historical significance. More specifically, it is a sandstone rock formation.
2. Where is Uluru?
If you ever want to see Uluru, you’ll be glad to know that it’s pretty hard to miss! The giant red rock can be found in the Central Australian desert in the southwestern Northern Territory.
3. Where does the name Uluru come from?
Although many know the areas as Ayers Rock, that name was only given by the Europeans when they arrived on the land. It was long known as Uluru and has since reclaimed its original name! The word “Uluru” is from the Pitjantjatjara language.
4. Where did the name Ayers Rock come from?
The name Ayers Rock came from the explorer, William Goose. In 1873, he was the first non-Aboriginal person to see Uluru. So, why did he name it Ayers Rock? He named it after the Chief Secretary of South Australia, Sir Henry Ayers.
5. So, which is it, Uluru or Ayers Rock?
On your way to the area, you will likely come across road signs that show both Ayers Rock and Uluru! And, most people who talk of the area use both or either name. However, Uluru is technically the official and original name of the area!
6. All the colours of the rock!
If you’ve looked up photos of Uluru or even been lucky enough to see it multiple times in your life, you may have found yourself a bit perplexed about the rock seemingly changing colours! That is because the rock changes colour according to the weather conditions, time of the day, and, of course, light.
It usually changes between shades of orange, red, bronze, gold, yellow, and even purple! This makes for some pretty fascinating photo opportunities, so be sure to have your Instagram filters switched “off” for the best experience!
7. Uluru stands proud!
Uluru stands at an impressive 348 metres (380 yards) tall at its highest point! It also covers an area of about 9.4 km, or 5.8 miles!
8. Can I visit Uluru?
Of course, you can – and, in fact, the Aboriginal Anangu people still live in the surrounding area and give guided tours about Uluru to visitors! There is no one better on Earth to learn about the sacred rock from – so leave those guidebooks and TripAdvisor reviews at home.
9. Uluru is technically a… land berg?
Uluru is technically an inselberg! What is an inselberg, you say? Simply put, Uluru is considered an island rock whose surfaces continue below ground, sometimes reaching incredible depths!
10. It’s truly ancient ground.
Believe it or not, Uluru is said to be about 600 million years old! And, while today it stands at about 863 metres (0.5 miles) above sea level, it was once on the sea bed itself!
FAQs about Uluru
Why is Uluru rock so special?
Uluru is incredibly important to Aboriginal people. They believe that the rock was formed by ancestral beings during the Dreaming, and it is, therefore, a sacred site for them. As such, you should always show your respect for the territory if visiting.
What is Uluru most famous for?
Given its sheer beauty and unique formation, Uluru is known for being one of Australia’s most beautiful landscapes! It is also very well known for being a sacred Aboriginal site, and a fantastic photo opportunity for landscape lovers.
Is it disrespectful to call Uluru Ayers Rock?
Some may perceive calling Ayers Rock as disrespectful. It is particularly disrespectful to the Aboriginal people who named the rock Uluru centuries ago and have always considered it to be sacred ground. Therefore, learn the local lingo.
Further reading:
https://facts.uk/tag/australia/
https://parksaustralia.gov.au/uluru/
https://northernterritory.com/gb/en/uluru-and-surrounds/destinations/uluru
Do you know any fun facts about Uluru? Share them in the comments below!