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Mozambique

Ngalue

Middle Stone Age cave with preserved artifacts

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

Ngalue Cave is a significant archaeological site located in the Niassa province of Mozambique, known for its well-preserved Middle Stone Age artifacts. The cave, composed of dolomite marble, provides insights into human occupation from approximately 105,000 to 40,000 years ago. Excavations led by Julio Mercader uncovered over 727 stone artifacts, predominantly made of quartz, including handheld tools and core tools with ochre pigment. Starch analysis revealed dietary patterns, indicating the consumption of sorghum and various native African plants. The site's unique tool technology, distinct from other Middle Stone Age sites, offers valuable data on the subsistence strategies and environmental adaptations of early human populations in Eastern Africa. Ngalue Cave's findings contribute to the broader understanding of human migration and ecosystem dynamics during the Middle Stone Age.

Archaeological Features

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Domestic and Habitation Structures

Caves

Environmental and Natural Features

Modified Caves

Food Production and Processing Features

Hearths

Historical Timeline

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Plan Your Visit

Details

Country
Mozambique
Source
Wikipedia