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Zambia

Kalemba Rockshelter

Zambian site with ancient rock paintings

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 Kalemba Rockshelter in eastern Zambia is a significant archaeological site featuring a well-preserved record of human activity spanning several millennia. Discovered in 1955, this site is located within a granite gneiss outcrop and includes two main shelters with notable rock paintings. Radiocarbon dating indicates human occupation dating back approximately 37,000 years, encompassing the Upper Paleolithic through the Neolithic periods. The site's stratigraphy reveals diverse artifacts, including microliths, ground stone tools, bone artifacts, and pottery, reflecting advanced tool-making and habitation practices. The presence of human burials and rock paintings suggests a complex cultural and ritualistic life. Kalemba Rockshelter thus provides critical insights into early human adaptation and artistic expression in this region of Africa.

Archaeological Features

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

Burial and Funerary Structures

Graves

Artistic and Decorative Features

Cave Paintings

Environmental and Natural Features

Rock Shelters

Historical Timeline

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

Plan Your Visit

Details

Country
Zambia
Source
Wikipedia