Cradle of Humankind
Gauteng
The Cradle of Humankind, located about 50 km northwest of Johannesburg in South Africa's Gauteng province, is a globally significant paleoanthropological site. It encompasses a vast area of 47,000 hectares filled with a complex system of limestone caves where the largest known concentration of early hominin fossils has been discovered. Among the most famous finds are the 2.3-million-year-old Australopithecus africanus fossil known as "Mrs. Ples" and the juvenile skull "Taung Child," which were pivotal in understanding human evolution. The site includes notable caves such as Sterkfontein, Swartkrans, and Kromdraai, each contributing important fossil discoveries like Paranthropus robustus and evidence of early Homo erectus use of fire. The nearby Rising Star Cave, although not officially part of the site, contains the Dinaledi Chamber where numerous Homo naledi fossils were found, representing one of the most extensive single-species hominin fossil collections in Africa. The Cradle of Humankind is also home to the Maropeng Visitor Centre, which offers interactive exhibitions and educational programs that explore human origins and evolution. This site not only holds immense scientific value but also serves as a cultural and educational beacon, illustrating the deep African roots of humanity.
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Tip: Visit during weekdays or early mornings to avoid crowds, especially at the Maropeng Visitor Centre. Booking tickets online in advance is recommended to ensure entry and access to guided tours. Educational groups and families can benefit from interactive exhibits that enhance learning about human evolution. Check seasonal opening hours and inquire about available discounts for students, seniors, or large groups. Allow ample time to explore both the visitor centre and select cave sites where guided tours are offered.
Interesting facts
- •Sterkfontein Caves have produced more than one-third of all early hominid fossils found before 2010.
- •The Dinaledi Chamber in the Rising Star Cave contains over 1,500 fossil specimens of Homo naledi from at least 15 individuals.
- •Swartkrans cave holds evidence of the oldest controlled use of fire by Homo erectus, dated to over 1 million years ago.
- •The site spans 47,000 hectares and includes a complex network of limestone caves rich in fossils.
- •The name 'Maropeng' means 'returning to the place of origin' in the Setswana language.
History
The Cradle of Humankind was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1999, recognizing its outstanding paleoanthropological importance.
Human fossil discoveries in the area began in the early 20th century, with significant finds such as the Taung Child in 1924 and the discovery of Mrs.
Ples in 1947.
Over decades, numerous excavations at sites like Sterkfontein, Swartkrans, and Kromdraai have uncovered fossils dating back over 3 million years, shedding light on early hominin species and human ancestors.
The ongoing research and discoveries, including the 2013 identification of Homo naledi in the nearby Rising Star Cave, continue to deepen our understanding of human evolution.
The establishment of the Maropeng Visitor Centre in the early 2000s has helped preserve and interpret these findings for the public.
Place Guide
Maropeng Visitor Centreearly 2000s
The official visitor centre offers interactive exhibitions that trace the story of human evolution, combining ancient fossils with modern scientific insights. It serves as an educational hub with multimedia displays, guided tours, and cultural programs that celebrate African heritage and human origins.
Sterkfontein CavesDiscovered 1947
A key fossil site where the famous 'Mrs. Ples' Australopithecus africanus skull was found, along with numerous other hominin fossils. The caves are a central part of ongoing excavations and research into early human ancestors.
Swartkrans CaveExcavations from 1950s onward
Known for yielding the second-largest sample of hominid remains in the Cradle, Swartkrans also provides evidence of early Homo erectus use of fire dating back over a million years.
Rising Star Cave - Dinaledi ChamberDiscovered 2013
Though outside the official boundaries, this cave system houses the Dinaledi Chamber where over 1,500 Homo naledi fossil specimens were discovered, marking one of the most significant hominin finds in Africa.
Contact
Phone: 014 577 9000
