A Globally Significant UNESCO World Heritage Site

The Cradle of Humankind World Heritage Site is a 52,000-hectare area of outstanding palaeoanthropological value — distinguished by having yielded the highest quality and greatest density of hominin fossil finds in the world.

Fossils found here provide strong evidence that humankind has its origins in Africa. The site tells the story of human ancestry, exploring the journey of humanity in pursuit of unity, solidarity and a common purpose of the human spirit. Across the protected landscape, caves and fossil localities preserve evidence that continues to inform research into human evolution.

In addition to being a source of national pride, the project is an important contributor to the Growth and Development Strategy of Gauteng, stimulating Broad Based Black Economic Empowerment (BBBEE), Small Medium Micro Enterprise (SMME) development and job creation.