Time Periods
Paleolithic
Mesolithic
Neolithic
Chalcolithic
Bronze Age
Iron Age
Classical Period
Post-Classical Period
Early Modern Period
Industrial Period
Contemporary Period
Time Periods
Paleolithic
Mesolithic
Neolithic
Chalcolithic
Bronze Age
Iron Age
Classical Period
Post-Classical Period
Early Modern Period
Industrial Period
Contemporary Period
Location
About
Sterkfontein is an archaeological site located in the Gauteng province of South Africa, renowned for its remarkable limestone caves that have yielded a wealth of early hominin fossils. These caves, recognized as a World Heritage Site, are part of the Cradle of Humankind and have provided significant insight into human evolution. Notable discoveries include the Australopithecus africanus fossils, with the famous 'Mrs. Ples' skull dating from approximately 2.6 to 2.0 million years ago, and the 'Little Foot' skeleton of Australopithecus prometheus, estimated to be 2.6-2.2 million years old. The site also contains evidence of early Homo species, such as the StW 53 specimen. Sterkfontein's rich fossil record, spanning several million years, makes it a pivotal site for understanding early hominin evolution in Africa.
Gallery
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Archaeological Features
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Domestic and Habitation Structures
Environmental and Natural Features
Historical Timeline
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Plan Your Visit
Details
- Country
- South Africa
- Source
- Wikipedia
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