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Arusha Region

Olduvai Gorge

Important paleoanthropological site in Tanzania.

Time Periods

Paleolithic

Paleolithic

Mesolithic

Mesolithic

Neolithic

Neolithic

Chalcolithic

Chalcolithic

Bronze Age

Bronze Age

Iron Age

Iron Age

Classical Period

Classical Period

Post-Classical Period

Post-Classical Period

Early Modern Period

Early Modern Period

Industrial Period

Industrial Period

Contemporary Period

Contemporary Period

Location

About

Olduvai Gorge, located in Tanzania, is a crucial paleoanthropological site that has significantly contributed to our understanding of early human evolution. This steep-sided ravine in the Great Rift Valley has revealed a wealth of fossils, particularly of early hominins such as Homo habilis, Paranthropus boisei, and Homo erectus, dating back to 1.9 million years ago. The site is also notable for the discovery of the oldest known stone tools, categorized as Oldowan, which provide insight into the cognitive and social development of early humans. The gorge's rich stratigraphy, with layers ranging from the Lower Pleistocene, has preserved a diverse array of faunal remains and evidence of early human activity, underscoring its significance in the study of human ancestry.

Gallery

Explore photographs of ancient structures, artifacts, and archaeological excavations at Olduvai Gorge

FileNeolithic_Lithic_implement_-_worked_flake_-_tertiary_debitage_FindID_539218-412104.jpg
FileOldupai_Gorge_monolith.jpg
FileOlduvaiGorge-1.gif

Archaeological Features

Explore the unique architectural and cultural elements found at this historical site

Industrial and Craft Structures

Toolmakers’ Areas

Environmental and Natural Features

Soil LayersBone Middens

Historical Timeline

Journey through time and discover key events in this site's archaeological history

Plan Your Visit

Details

Country
Arusha Region
Source
Wikipedia