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South Africa

Gladysvale Cave

Fossil-rich breccia-filled hominid cave.

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

Gladysvale Cave is a significant archaeological site located in South Africa, within the Cradle of Humankind World Heritage Site. Known for its fossil-rich breccia deposits, the cave has yielded a substantial amount of paleontological and archaeological material. Key discoveries include fossilized remains of Australopithecus africanus, early Homo species, and an Acheulean handaxe, indicating the presence of early hominids and tool use. The cave's stratigraphy has been meticulously studied, employing various dating techniques that have helped establish a timeline of occupation and environmental conditions. The site's geology and extensive fossil deposits provide valuable insights into the paleoenvironment and evolutionary history of southern Africa.

Gallery

Explore photographs of ancient structures, artifacts, and archaeological excavations at Gladysvale Cave

FileFamily_of_George_Norton_Krugersdorp-2.jpg
FileGladysvale1.jpg
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Archaeological Features

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

Domestic and Habitation Structures

Caves

Environmental and Natural Features

Bone Middens

Historical Timeline

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

Plan Your Visit

Details

Country
South Africa
Source
Wikipedia