Fossil Hominid Sites

The Fossil Hominid Sites of Sterkfontein, Swartkrans, Kromdraai and Environs are part what is called The Cradle of Humankind. This site contains a complex of limestone caves, including the Sterkfontein Caves, where the 2.3-million year-old fossil Australopithecus africanus (nicknamed "Mrs. Ples") was found in 1947 by Dr Robert Broom and John Robinson, as well as the Wonder Cave. The find helped corroborate the 1924 discovery of the juvenile Australopithecus africanus skull, "Taung Child", by Raymond Dart, at Taung in the North West Province of South Africa, where excavations still continue.



Year Decision Comments
1999 Inscribed Reasons for inscription

Reviews

Driefen Deeders (USA):
I landed in Johannesburg hoping to see Ms ples and the escavation of little foot. little did i know that i had paid a fortune to see some plastic figures as i didnt even get to see a glimpse of the actual authentic fossils-although the caves and scenery was brilliant
Date posted: December 2008
Winnie Mokokwe (South Africa):
The place is very impressive.However the new develoments have included an OFFENSIVE(!)statue of Homo heidlebergensis.People cant even bear to look at it.Can something please be done about it
 
André Dique (United Kingdom):
It is possible to visit the Sterkfontein caves but you have to find your own way to get there. They do tours of the caves for a nominal fee (tips are optional) but don't expect to see many fossils. The archeolocial digs were all closed off.

The caves are impressive and it is a good day out, considering the many unique private restaurants in the area. That way you could drive around the Highveld countryside enjoying some time away from the city bustle of Johannesburg.
 


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