Museum of Anthropology and Archaeology

The Museum of Anthropology and Archaeology, situated on the Muckleneuk Campus at The University of South Africa, is home to a large archaeological collection, including artefacts dating from the Stone Age, Iron Age and South Africa’s historical past. Since its establishment in 1957 by Mr HF Sentker, the museum’s collection has grown to some 27 000 objects, including pottery, beadwork, musical instruments and utensils.

Not to be missed is the palaeo-anthropology collection of casts taken from original hominin fossils. Two exceptional specimens are Taung Child and Mrs Ples (both belonging to Australopithecus africanus ). The Museum forms part of the Department of Anthropology and Archaeology at UNISA and functions as an independent entity (with exhibitions, store rooms and laboratories) and a study collection.

Since 1975 the Junod Collection has also been housed in the museum and features the traditional material culture of the Tsonga people. For large bookings and to arrange a tour with the curator, contact Francois Coetzee.