Canteen Kopje, Archaeological site near Barkly West, South Africa
Canteen Kopje is an archaeological site near Barkly West that contains multiple layers of stone tools within gravels exposed through historic mining. The location reveals different stone working techniques and tool types across various periods of human development.
The site gained recognition in 1925 when a human skull was discovered by a diamond digger and later analyzed by a prominent scientist. This finding contributed significantly to understanding early human settlement in southern Africa.
Archaeological studies at Canteen Kopje reveal stone tool manufacturing techniques spanning from Early Stone Age through Late Stone Age periods.
The location features information panels and an established walking trail to help visitors understand the archaeological findings. Early morning visits are recommended to avoid the heat on the open grounds and to see the exposed layers more clearly.
Research indicates the site contains materials reaching back approximately 2.3 million years, making it invaluable for understanding early human evolution. Diamond mining activities accidentally exposed these ancient layers, speeding up archaeological discoveries at the location.
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