Sibudu Cave

Sibudu Cave is a rock shelter located in the KwaZulu-Natal province of South Africa, near the town of Tongaat. It is an important archaeological site that has provided significant insights into the Middle Stone Age of southern Africa. The site is renowned for its well-preserved stratigraphy and the wealth of archaeological material it has yielded, including stone tools, faunal remains, and evidence of early human behavior.

History of Excavation

Sibudu Cave was first discovered in 1983, but systematic excavations did not begin until 1998, under the direction of archaeologist Lyn Wadley. The site has been excavated extensively, revealing a sequence of deposits that span from approximately 77,000 to 38,000 years ago. These deposits have provided a detailed record of human occupation during the Middle Stone Age.

Archaeological Significance

Sibudu Cave is particularly significant for its evidence of early cognitive and technological developments in Homo sapiens. The site has yielded some of the earliest known examples of composite tools, which are tools made from multiple materials, such as stone and wood. These tools indicate advanced tool-making skills and cognitive abilities.

Stone Tools

The stone tool assemblage at Sibudu includes a variety of blades, points, and scrapers. The presence of microliths suggests that the inhabitants of Sibudu were capable of producing small, precise tools, likely used for hunting and processing animal hides.

Evidence of Symbolic Behavior

One of the most intriguing aspects of Sibudu is the evidence of symbolic behavior, such as the use of ochre for coloring and possibly for symbolic purposes. Ochre pieces with engraved patterns have been found, suggesting early forms of artistic expression.

Plant Use

Sibudu has also provided evidence of early plant use, including the use of medicinal plants and the construction of bedding from plant materials. The discovery of sedges and grasses used as bedding, along with evidence of insect-repellent plants, indicates a sophisticated understanding of the environment.

Environmental Context

The environmental context of Sibudu Cave has been reconstructed through the analysis of pollen, charcoal, and faunal remains. These studies suggest that the region experienced significant climatic fluctuations during the period of occupation, which would have influenced the subsistence strategies of the inhabitants.

Also see

• Middle Stone Age
• Lyn Wadley
• Rock shelter
• Archaeology of South Africa
• Cognitive archaeology