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Ethiopia

Omo River

Early hominid fossils and stone tools site.

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

About

The Omo River region in southern Ethiopia is a significant archaeological site due to its extensive collection of early hominid fossils and stone tools. The area has yielded over 50,000 fossils, including those of the genera Australopithecus and Homo, dating back to the Pliocene and Pleistocene epochs. Notably, stone tools identified as part of the Oldowan industry, dating to approximately 2.4 million years ago, have been discovered here. This site has contributed significantly to understanding human evolution and early tool-making practices. The river basin's inclusion in the UNESCO World Heritage List underscores its global importance. Despite challenges such as poor raw materials affecting tool appearance, the archaeological findings provide crucial insights into early hominid life and adaptation.

Gallery

Explore photographs of ancient structures, artifacts, and archaeological excavations at Omo River

FileKaro_woman_and_child.jpg
FileLower_Valley_of_the_Omo-138523.jpg
FileOmo_River_02.jpg

Archaeological Features

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

Miscellaneous Features

Caches

Environmental and Natural Features

Ecofacts

Historical Timeline

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Plan Your Visit

Details

Country
Ethiopia
Source
Wikipedia