6 optical illusions with Category: Rocks

Nature has a way of surprising us with illusions, and among them are mimetoliths—rocks that appear to take on familiar shapes like faces, animals, or even entire human figures. The reason we see these shapes in rocks comes down to pareidolia. This is our brain’s tendency to recognize familiar patterns, especially faces, in random or abstract visuals. Erosion, wind, water, and time sculpt rocks into all kinds of shapes, and we can often recognize some figures in them.

Image: The Forest has Eyes by Bev Doolittle

Mimetoliths can be found in a variety of sizes and forms. Some of the most famous mimetoliths are large mountains or ridges that resemble massive, reclining figures. These “sleeping giants” can be found all over the world, and many have become popular tourist attractions due to their striking resemblance to human or animal forms. 

Smaller mimetoliths are equally fascinating. Large boulders or rock faces can appear to have carved features like eyes, noses, and mouths. These rock formations are tucked away in forests, deserts, or even coastal areas, and are the subject of folklore about trolls turning into stone after exposure to sunlight. 

Click on the images below to see larger versions and guess what you’re looking at. If you can’t figure it out, click the red button to reveal the explanation behind the illusion.

All these optical illusions with rocks were originally posted on social media, and we’ve worked hard to find the rightful owners and give credit where it’s due. If you share these images, please make sure to credit the original sources as well.