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Introduction

Mossel Bay’s Point Discovery Centre stands as a testament to our shared human history, offering visitors an incredible opportunity to delve into the origins of our species. Nestled adjacent to the site of one of South Africa’s first scientific archaeological excavations, this multi-purpose facility aims to shed light on our past, present, and future.



About the Centre

The Point Discovery Centre is an Interpretation Centre that forms an integral part of the Cradle of Human Culture. The Cradle of Human Culture encompasses several significant archaeological sites througout South Africa. This rich heritage includes main sites such as the Diepkloof Rock Shelter, the Pinnacle Point Caves, and the Sibhudu Cave. While these main sites highlight the development of modern human behaviour in Homo sapiens from around 167,000 years ago, other sites such as the Cape St Blaize cave also assumes an important role as a secondary site within the Cradle of Human Culture. The Point Discovery Centre helps visitors by exploring this collective evidence to gain a deeper understanding of our shared human journey.

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The key attractions near the Point Discovery Centre are the Cape St Blaize Cave (freely open to the public) and the Pinnacle Point Caves (open by guided tour through Point of Human Origins). These historical sites have played a significant role in South Africa’s archaeological endeavors, particularly within the Middle Stone Age. The Cape St Blaize Cave marks the starting point of the Cape St Blaize Trail, a 13.5km hiking trail connecting Mossel Bay and Dana Bay, with the trail passing through the Pinnacle Point Estate.

Interesting Facts

  • The Cape St Blaize Cave is a site of early Middle Stone Age excavations which played a pivotal role in South Africa’s archaeological history and continues to be a significant attraction for visitors.
  • The Point Discovery Centre forms a vital part of the Cradle of Human Culture, an exceptional collection of World Heritage Sites showcasing the development of modern human behaviour in Homo sapiens over 167,000 years ago. The collective evidence presented at the museum illuminates our shared journey as a species and invites visitors to contemplate the similarities that bind us all.

Photo Gallery

Physical Location

Tourist Experiences

Make a trip of it and visit some of the other recommended museums, tourist attractions and experiences in the area.

Conclusion

At the Point Discovery Centre visitors embark on a captivating journey that explores our shared human origins. From the survival strategies of our ancestors to the challenges we face in the present and future, this center offers a profound insight into our species' development and the importance of understanding our relationship with the world around us. Prepare to be inspired, enlightened, and motivated as you delve into the depths of human history and contemplate our collective future.