Human Remains Found Ancient Burial Site In The Plain Of Jars

Human remains have been discoovered by scientists in an ancient burial ground in the Plain of Jars, one of Asia's mysterious archaeological locations found in Laos.

The human remains that were discovered by researchers from the Australian National University comes in the setting of the first extensive excavation project on the location since the 1930's. The research team, which is led by Dr. Dougald O'Reilley, has discovered humans remains from 2500 years ago in one of the 90 locations that comprise the Plain of Jars, according to News.

With the human remains' discovery, the researchers have unearthed the first proof of the primary burial in the Plain of Jars.  According to Dr. O'Reilly, the latest discovery should help in determining the reason behind the jars next to where the human remains were found.

Meanwhile, French archaeologist Madeleine Colani was the first scholar to explore the Plain of Jars in the 1930's. According to Colani, the site is linked to the pre-historical burial rituals, and that the jars that measure from one to three meters in height, were most likely meant to keep the cremated remains.

As the latest findings appear to support Colani's assumption, archaeologists are hopeful that this will lead to a better understanding of the ancient funeral rituals that were practiced at the site. But the recent discovery brings more questions as well, which seem to deepen the mystery behind the Plain of Jars.

Archaeologists did not identify the deceased nor did they tell whether the burial practices were based on hierarchy. This may be due to the fact that there was a lack of ceremonial objects with the remains, which make it difficult to answer these questions. The best way to assist in finding the identity of the buried humans is perhaps through a DNA analysis.  

Human remains found in the Plain of Jars also gave a new reason for the Laos authorities to have the area listed as a UNESCO World Heritage location. This can help in increasing the tourism in the region, Live Science reported.