A Groundbreaking Find in Din Cave Archaeologists in Thailand have unearthed the country's oldest known human skeleton, a discovery that could significantly alter the understanding of Southeast Asian prehistory. The remains, found in the remote Din Cave—already renowned for its prehistoric rock art—have been dated to over 29,000 years ago.
A New Perspective on Ancient Civilizations This remarkable find offers fresh insights into the lives of early humans in the region during the late Pleistocene era. Named 'Pangpond' by researchers, the child’s burial challenges previous historical assumptions and sheds light on the cultural practices of ancient inhabitants.
Phnombootra Chandrajoti, Director General of the Fine Arts Department (FAD), emphasized the significance of the discovery, stating: "This finding is a major breakthrough that reshapes our understanding of early human presence in Southeast Asia. The careful burial and surrounding artifacts provide valuable information about the rituals and daily life of these ancient people."
Evidence of Ritualistic Burial Practices Excavation findings suggest that the child was buried with great care. Archaeologists noted that the body was deliberately positioned in a supine state, with the head facing southwest. Stones were placed around the remains, indicating a level of respect in the burial process. The positioning of the limbs, with the toes touching, suggests that the body may have been wrapped or bound before being laid to rest.
The cave is also home to prehistoric rock paintings(Image: Courtesy of Fine Arts Department.)
Preliminary analysis estimates that the child was between six and eight years old at the time of death. Further examination of soil and fossil layers confirms the skeleton’s age, firmly placing it within the late Pleistocene period.
Din Cave: A Window into the Past Situated 125 meters above sea level, Din Cave has long been of archaeological interest, particularly since the discovery of prehistoric rock paintings in 1996. These ancient artworks, along with the newly uncovered skeleton, provide an unprecedented glimpse into human evolution and social practices over thousands of years.
"Din Cave serves as an invaluable historical record, documenting human societies as they evolved," an FAD spokesperson explained. "Ongoing research will further illuminate the lives of these early people and their contributions to Southeast Asia's rich history."
This extraordinary discovery marks a pivotal moment in archaeological studies, promising new revelations about the ancient civilizations that once thrived in the region. As researchers continue their investigations, Din Cave may hold even more secrets waiting to be uncovered.
