![]() ![]() ![]() Alongside and predating the hominid period of occupation is a sequence of fossil mammals, micro-mammals and invertebrates which provide a window onto faunal evolution, palaeobiology and palaeoecology stretching back into the Pliocene. The sites contain within their deposits all of the key interrelated and interdependent elements in their palaeontological relationships. They constitute a vast reserve of scientific information, with enormous potential. Collectively these sites have produced abundant scientific information on the evolution of modern humans over at least the past 3.5 million years. Fossils found in the many archaeological caves of the Makapan Valley have enabled the identification of several specimens of early hominids, more particularly of Paranthropus, dating back between 4.5 million and 2.5 million years, as well as evidence of the domestication of fire 1.8 million to 1 million years ago. The Taung Skull, found in a limestone quarry at Dart Pinnacle amongst numerous archaeological and palaeontological sites south-west of the Sterkfontein Valley area, is a specimen of the species Australopithecus Africanus. #Cradle of humankind serial#The serial listing includes the Fossil Hominid Sites of Sterkfontein, Swartkrans, Kromdraai and Environs, and the Makapan Valley and Taung Skull Fossil Site. Most sites are in caves or are associated with rocky outcrops or water sources. To know this place is to understand the journey of humanity.The undulating landscape containing the fossil hominid sites of South Africa comprises dolomitic limestone ridges with rocky outcrops and valley grasslands, wooded along watercourses and in areas of natural springs. The Cradle of Humankind is home to our history. From the savannah’s sweet breeze to the most fascinating fossils, a trip here is as illuminating as it is exciting. This ancient world within a modern era is preserved 90 minutes from Johannesburg. By nightfall, their stories come alive before the campfire. isiZulu, Ndebele, BaPedi, Basotho and isiXhosa residents have been sharing their culture and traditions with guests here since 1993. Kudu, warthog, and crocodile are on the menu. They stir the flavours of the bush in a potjie. Each of the 15 fossil sites in the Cradle of Humankind contains unique discoveries like these.Īt the Lesedi Cultural Village nearby, flames heat up the kitchens of locals. ![]() Five decades later, researchers unearthed Little Foot, the near-complete skeleton advancing the understanding of our predecessors. In 1947, palaeontologists found the skull of an Australopithecus africanus, an ape-like hominid with human features, nicknamed Mrs Ples. Although some tunnels can be a squeeze, walkways create a smooth journey into these caverns of scientific significance. Within the Sterkfontein Caves, 10 kilometres away, the real adventure takes place. For those who yearn to linger among these icons and the marvels of the past, there’s the Maropeng Boutique Hotel and Hominin House. Outside, the Long March to Freedom statues depict political heroes cast in bronze. Fossils, stone tools, and exact replicas are on display alongside in-depth explanations of their history. Interactive exhibitions showcase the development of the earth, from the planet’s formation billions of years ago to the present age. This journey begins at the Maropeng Visitor Centre. With the fossils that lie in them, we can piece together the story of evolution. The Cradle of Humankind is a World Heritage Site where indigenous flora covers dolomite caves formed over aeons. Today, the place where their remains were discovered is a dedicated area to learning about how we developed. Millions of years ago, our ancestors roamed South Africa. ![]()
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