Lower Valley of the Omo, Ethiopia

Omo River, Ethiopia
Source: https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Omo_River.jpg
Author: Oxonhutch
The Lower Valley of the Omo is a prehistoric site near Lake Turkana in Ethiopia. The valley is famous for the discovery of prehistoric human fossils, especially of Homo gracilis. The discoveries at the Lower Valley of the Omo has been significant in the study of human evolution.

The Lower Valley of the Omo is believed to be an important crossroad for migrating ethnic groups. The valley was first explored by Europeans in the 1880's when Italian explorer Vittorio Bottego reached the Omo River.

French and American archaeologists have discovered hominid fossils dating to the Pliocene and Pleistocene periods. Tools of early man have also been discovered. Dating back 2.4 million years, they are the oldest to date.

Tribesmen of the Omo River Valley
Source: https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Omo_River_Valley_IMG_0463.jpg
Author: AnnaMaria Donnoli


Lower Valley of the Omo was inscribed as a World Heritage Site during the 4th session of the World Heritage Committee which took place in Headquarter in Paris, France, on 1-5 September, 1980.

World Heritage Site Inscription Details

Location: N 4 47 60 E 35 58 0
Inscription Year: 1980
Type of Site: Cultural
Inscription Criteria: III, IV

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