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South Africa

Florisbad archaeological and paleontological site

Middle Pleistocene to Holocene artifact-rich mound

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

The Florisbad archaeological and paleontological site is located in the Free State province of South Africa. It is renowned for the discovery of the Florisbad Skull, a partial skull of a pre-modern human species dating back to the Middle Pleistocene. The site includes a sequence of Quaternary deposits with faunal remains and a variety of lithic assemblages spanning from the Middle Pleistocene to the early Holocene. These assemblages include the Macrolithic industry, the Florisbad Industry, and the Late Stone Age Lockshoek Industry. The site also provides evidence of short-term human occupations during the Middle Stone Age, marked by hearths and faunal remains indicating butchery activities. The stratigraphy of sand and peat layers has allowed for exceptional preservation of organic materials, adding to the site's archaeological significance.

Archaeological Features

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

Miscellaneous Features

Caches

Environmental and Natural Features

Charcoal Deposits

Food Production and Processing Features

Hearths

Historical Timeline

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

Plan Your Visit

Details

Country
South Africa
Source
Wikipedia