Blombos Cave

Blombos Cave, situated on the southern Cape coast, is one of the world's most significant archaeological sites for understanding the origins of modern human behavior. The cave contains Middle Stone Age deposits ranging from 70,000 to 100,000 years old. It gained international fame in 2002 with the discovery of engraved ochre plaques, which are regarded as some of the earliest examples of symbolic thought and abstract art. Additionally, archaeologists found over 40 perforated sea snail shells used as personal ornaments, indicating early social complexity and self-expression. Led by Professor Christopher Henshilwood, the research team also uncovered an ochre-processing 'workshop,' proving that early humans utilized complex recipes to create pigments. The cave deposits provide crucial data on paleo-diets, showing a reliance on both terrestrial animals and diverse marine resources. These findings challenge the previous theory that symbolic behavior only emerged in Europe 40,000 years ago. Today, Blombos is a protected archaeological reserve and remains at the forefront of paleo-anthropological research. Its isolated location on the cliffs of the Indian Ocean has preserved its layers for millennia.

Nearby cities

Cape Town

The legislative capital of South Africa sits at the foot of Table Mountain and is famous for its busy harbor.

Paarl

A historic town in the Cape Winelands District, known for the massive granite Paarl Rock.

George

The largest city on the scenic Garden Route is overshadowed by the Outeniqua Mountains.

Worcester

The economic hub of the Breede River Valley is surrounded by mountains and produces a large portion of the country's wine.

Stellenbosch

The second-oldest European settlement in the country is world-famous for its university and surrounding vineyards.

Mossel Bay

This harbor town marks the official southern end of the Garden Route and has a rich maritime history.

Oudtshoorn

The 'Ostrich Capital of the World' is situated in the Little Karoo and is famous for the nearby limestone caves.

Knysna

A picturesque coastal town on the Garden Route, situated on a large lagoon and surrounded by dense forests.

Saldanha

The town on the West Coast is known for its deep natural harbor and iron ore processing.

Hermanus

The world's premier land-based whale watching destination, situated along the scenic Walker Bay.

Beaufort West

The oldest town in the Central Karoo is a major stopover on the route between Cape Town and Johannesburg.

Plettenberg Bay

A premier coastal destination on the Garden Route, famous for its pristine beaches, lagoons, and diverse marine life.

Franschhoek

The culinary capital of South Africa, set in a picturesque valley with deep French roots and world-class wine estates.

Montagu

A historic town on Route 62 known for its hot springs, dried fruit, and dramatic mountain scenery.

Gansbaai

The shark-diving capital of the world and a premier destination for whale watching along a rugged, scenic coastline.

History & landmarks

Cape Town City Hall

A large Edwardian building situated in the center of Cape Town on the Grand Parade.

Cape Town Stadium

An iconic sports stadium situated in Green Point, with stunning views of Table Mountain and the ocean.

Swellendam

South Africa's third oldest town, featuring stunning Cape Dutch architecture at the foot of the Langeberg Mountains.

Prince Albert

An architectural jewel at the foot of the Swartberg Pass, famous for its Victorian houses and olive groves.

Tulbagh

A historic valley famous for its perfectly restored Cape Dutch architecture on Church Street and fine wines.

Clanwilliam

A gateway to the Cederberg Mountains and the world's Rooibos tea capital, steeped in history and natural beauty.

Nature

Breede River

A river in the Western Cape.

More places

Port of Cape Town

A major seaport situated along one of the world's busiest trade routes, renowned for fresh produce export.