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Nelson Bay Cave - Robberg Nature Reserve, Plettenberg Bay

Nelson Bay Cave has been excavated since the 1960s and has revealed artifacts, including stone tools, remnants of ancient fires, and animal bones that date back to the Middle Stone Age, approximately 120,000 years ago.  © Plett Tourism

Nelson Bay Cave - Robberg Nature Reserve, Plettenberg Bay

Nelson Bay Cave is a notable archaeological site located within the Robberg Nature Reserve near Plettenberg Bay, Western Cape. This cave offers a fascinating glimpse into early human history and has been a significant research site for understanding prehistoric human life in Southern Africa.

Nelson Bay Cave has been excavated since the 1960s and has revealed artifacts, including stone tools, remnants of ancient fires, and animal bones that date back to the Middle Stone Age, approximately 120,000 years ago. The findings illustrate that the cave served as a seasonal shelter for early hunter-gatherer groups who relied on the area’s rich coastal resources. As archaeological studies continued, researchers unearthed layers from different periods, including the Later Stone Age, reflecting adaptations in tool use, diet, and lifestyle as humans evolved.

Artifacts from Nelson Bay Cave highlight the dynamic shifts in prehistoric culture and environment. The layers in the cave show evidence of shellfish remains, indicating that early humans utilized the coast for food, particularly during periods when terrestrial resources were scarce. Tools like microliths (small stone tools) found in later layers demonstrate advancements in toolmaking techniques. Additionally, the discovery of worked bone and ostrich eggshell beads provides insight into symbolic behavior, including early forms of adornment.

Today, visitors can access the cave via a scenic trail within Robberg Nature Reserve, which offers breathtaking coastal views and showcases the region’s biodiversity. Informational signs along the trail provide insight into the cave's history and the prehistoric inhabitants of the area, adding educational value to the visit. However, access inside the cave is typically limited to preserve the integrity of the archaeological site.

Contact Details for Robberg Nature Reserve
Managing Organization: CapeNature
Phone: +27 (0)44 533 2125
Email: see website
Website: https://www.capenature.co.za

Location: -34.10137008923208, 23.375584496008283


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