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Sibudu Cave
-29.5226° N, 31.0859° E
About
Sibudu Cave, located in northern KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa, is a significant Middle Stone Age archaeological site that provides insights into early human life and technology. Occupied from approximately 77,000 to 38,000 years ago, with an additional Iron Age occupation around 1000 BCE, the site offers evidence of advanced cognitive abilities in early humans. Notable discoveries include the earliest known bone and stone arrows, a needle, and the use of heat-treated mixed compound glues. The site also features one of the oldest known examples of plant-based bedding. Sibudu Cave's well-preserved archaeological deposits reveal the technological innovations and environmental adaptations of its inhabitants, highlighting their complex thought processes and behaviors that are akin to those of modern humans.
Gallery
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Historical Timeline
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Use of bedding
77000 BCE
Occupation at Sibudu Cave starts
77000 BCE
Still Bay occupation period
72000 BCE
Howiesons Poort occupation period
61000 BCE
Post-Howiesons Poort phase
58500 BCE
Final Middle Stone Age phase
38600 BCE
Iron Age occupation
1000 BCE
Archaeological Features
Unique architectural and cultural elements found at this historical site
Environmental and Natural Features
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