DR Congo - Matupi caves

The Matupi Cave is one of the major archaeological sites in sub-Saharan Africa. He delivered an occupation sequence spanning more than 40,000 years. The deepest levels are dated between 32,000 and> 40,700 before the present. They provided one of the oldest microlithic industries in the world. The lower levels (between 140-185 cm) are relatively poor in lithic remains. They are dated between 21,000 and 32,000 before the present. The average levels (between 65-140 cm) are dated between 12,000 and 21,000 before present. Very rich in lithic material, they also delivered a pierced stone "Kwé" decorated. The upper levels deliver a microlithic industry of the Recent Stone Age dated from 3,000 to 12,000 before the present, topped by Iron Age levels.