Swartkrans, Archaeological site in Gauteng, South Africa
Limestone caves at Swartkrans contain five distinct geological layers filled with fossils from early human ancestors and prehistoric animals.
Scientists discovered significant hominin remains dating back 1.9 million years, including specimens of Homo ergaster and Paranthropus robustus in 1948.
Excavations at Swartkrans revealed early bone tools from 1.8 million years ago, indicating the development of human tool-making abilities.
The archaeological site lies 32 kilometers from Johannesburg within the Cradle of Humankind World Heritage Site, near the Blaauwbank River.
Research at Swartkrans uncovered the earliest evidence of human cancer, found in a fossilized foot bone of an unidentified hominin species.
Location: Gauteng
Part of: Sterkfontein, Swartkrans, Kromdraai, and Environs
GPS coordinates: -25.75305,28.18886
Latest update: May 13, 2025 22:03
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