Uluru vs Ayers Rock: The name change of Australia’s most iconic monument

You’ve probably heard the names Uluru and Ayers Rock, so which one is the correct name for the iconic monolith?

Standing at 348 metres above the desert floor, Uluru is the world’s largest monolith. It is also Australia’s most iconic landmark. However, you may be surprised to learn that  it hasn’t always been known as Uluru.

In fact, for most people, the towering red rock formation is simply known as Ayers Rock and has been for years. Its rich and cultural significance encouraged a name-change in the 90s.

The Naming of Ayers Rock

In 1873, European explorer Ernest Giles first dubbed the rock Ayers Rock. He named it after the South Australian Premier Sir Henry Ayers. It was referred to by many as Ayers Rock for over 100 years.

However, the rock’s history dates back thousands and thousands of years. It has been a part of Indigenous traditions and culture since the beginning of time. In fact, it is owned by the Pitjantjatjara and Yankunytjatjara people (known together as the Anangu). The caves and crevices of the monolith contain many sacred areas and ancient rock paintings.

Renaming the Rock Uluru

On October 26th 1985, the government of Australia finally returned ownership of Uluru to the Anangu people. The return was part of the acknowledgement of their place as the original custodians of the land. However, it wasn’t until 1995 that the name change officially took place. In this year, the name of the national park changed from Ayers Rock-Mount Olga National Park to Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park.

The change was put in place to show respect for the Anangu people and, specifically, to acknowledge their ownership of the land. Since the beginning they have cultivated this land and built their societies here.

Today, Uluru remains an incredibly popular attraction with a hefty cultural history imbued in its dusty red surface. Visitors flock to the sacred site to marvel at the impressive natural structure of the rock. Here they learn about the centuries-old history that characterises this and the surrounding desert land.

Exploring Uluru

There are numerous trails that weave around the base of the monolith and through the spectacular surrounding scenery. Plus plenty of opportunities to see ancient rock paintings that tell stories and history of the Anangu.

If you want to learn more about the Indigenous history of Uluru and its name change, you can duck into the on-site Cultural Centre. Here there are numerous interactive displays that lay out the region’s history. You can also take a guided tour with an Aboriginal guide who will share the stories and traditions of their people with you.

Another Name Change

Located just 40 kilometres west of Uluru is another famous rock formation called Kata Tjuta. This rock formation is made up of several large boulders, dotted with scenic walking trails. Similar to Uluru, Kata Tjuta also has a history with its name.

In 1872, Ernest Giles, who spotted Uluru, also noticed Kata Tjuta. He named the tallest boulder Mount Olga, inspired by Queen Olga of Germany at the time. In the 1950s, when the area opened up to visitors, people started calling this formation the Olgas.

Fast forward to 1993 when Mount Olga’s name changed to Mount Olga/Kata Tjuta. Then, in 2002, the order was reversed to honour its original name. It is now officially known as Kata Tjuta/Mount Olga. However, when referring to this structure, you can just call it Kata Tjuta.

Visiting the Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park is a must-do on any visit to Australia, as the impressive monolith forms an important part of the country, both past and present.

Related article: When is the best time to visit Uluru?

Cameron Ward

Managing Director at Sightseeing Tours Australia

Cameron Ward turned his travel passion into a thriving Australian tourism business. Before he co-founded his own business, Sightseeing Tours Australia, he was enjoying being a Melbourne tour guide. Even now, Cameron delights in helping visitors from all around the world get the most out of their incredible Australian trip. You’ll see Cameron leading tours or writing about his favourite Australian places where he shares his local insights.