Friday, August 16, 2024 Situated in the Upper Awash Valley of Ethiopia, this serial property comprises a cluster of prehistoric sites that preserve invaluable archaeological and paleontological records, including ancient footprints. These sites, located at altitudes between 2,000 and 2,200 meters, provide evidence of occupation by hominin groups dating back two million years. Fossils of Homo erectus, Homo heidelbergensis, and archaic Homo sapiens have been discovered here, along with various tools made from volcanic rocks, all documented within well-dated strata.
The cultural sequence represented at these sites includes four distinct phases: the Oldowan, Acheulean, Middle Stone Age, and Late Stone Age techno-complexes. Fragments of ancient landscapes, buried under volcanic and sedimentary deposits and accompanied by fossilized fauna and flora, offer insights into the high-mountain ecosystems of the Ethiopian Highlands during the Pleistocene. These findings allow researchers to draw conclusions about the adaptation of hominin groups to the challenges and climatic conditions of high-altitude environments.
In 2020, Ethiopia welcomed 518,000 international tourists, reflecting the country’s growing appeal as a destination rich in history, culture, and natural beauty. Despite global challenges, Ethiopia’s unique attractions, including ancient sites like Lalibela and Axum, continue to draw visitors. The prehistoric sites of Melka Kunture and Balchit are also significantly boosti.