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Ngalue
-12.5150° N, 35.1190° E
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.
Historical Timeline
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Middle Stone Age Occupation Begins
105,000 BCE
End of Stone Age Occupation
40,000 BCE
Archaeological Features
Unique architectural and cultural elements found at this historical site
Domestic and Habitation Structures
Environmental and Natural Features
Food Production and Processing Features
Frequently Asked Questions
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