Pinnacle Point Caves

Pinnacle Point is a series of coastal caves and rockshelters near Mossel Bay on the southern Cape of South Africa containing Middle Stone Age deposits. Excavations directed by Curtis Marean uncovered evidence of systematic shellfish harvesting dating to approximately 164,000 years ago. This represents some of the earliest known use of marine resources by humans.

Researchers found early evidence of 'heat treatment' technology, where silcrete rocks were intentionally heated in fire to make them easier to flake into stone tools. This discovery dates to roughly 72,000 years ago, representing a major cognitive leap in human engineering. The process allowed early humans to create more precise and complex implements.

As the global climate cooled and the interior of Africa became harsher around 160,000 years ago, early modern humans migrated to the coast. The rich marine resources, including shellfish and seals, provided a highly reliable food source. This reliable diet is believed to have helped early humans survive extreme climate fluctuations.

The site is located on the southern Cape coast of South Africa, directly near the modern town of Mossel Bay. The caves are situated in a sheer cliff face overlooking the Indian Ocean. This elevated position helped protect the archaeological deposits from being destroyed by wave action.