Plain of Jars
Xiangkhouang
The Plain of Jars is an extraordinary prehistoric archaeological site located on the Xiangkhoang Plateau in Laos. It comprises thousands of large stone jars scattered in clusters across upland valleys and foothills. These jars, ranging from 1 to 3 meters in height and diameter, are carved from rock with a distinctive cylindrical shape wider at the base. Archaeological research indicates that the jars date back to between 1240 and 660 BC and were used in Iron Age burial rituals. Excavations have uncovered human remains, burial goods, ceramics, and glass beads around and inside the jars, supporting their funerary purpose. The site includes over 90 jar locations, with UNESCO recognizing more than 50 of them. Some jars feature unique iconography, such as the "frogman" bas-relief carved on a jar at Site 1, linking the site culturally to other ancient sites in Southeast Asia. The Plain of Jars is one of Southeast Asia's most significant prehistoric sites, offering insights into ancient mortuary practices and regional cultural connections. Several jar sites have been cleared of unexploded ordnance and are accessible to visitors, including the well-known Site 1 near Phonsavan. The landscape also includes stone discs with anthropomorphic and zoomorphic carvings, likely serving as burial markers. This enigmatic site continues to captivate archaeologists and travelers alike with its monumental stone jars and mysterious origins.
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Astuce: Visitors should plan their visit during the dry season for easier access and clearer weather. Booking guided tours in advance is recommended due to unexploded ordnance clearance limiting access to certain sites. Several jar sites near Phonsavan are open to tourists, and purchasing tickets ahead can ensure entry. Discounts may be available for students and groups. Always follow local safety guidelines and stay within designated areas to avoid risk from unexploded bombs.
Faits intéressants
- •Over 2,100 stone jars have been documented across more than 90 sites in Xiangkhoang Province.
- •The jars vary in size from 1 to 3 meters tall and wide, all carved from rock with a wider base than top.
- •Only one jar has been found with carved iconography, depicting a human 'frogman' figure.
- •Stone discs found near the jars feature anthropomorphic and zoomorphic carvings, including tigers and monkeys.
- •The jars were transported from a quarry approximately eight kilometers away, demonstrating complex prehistoric logistics.
Histoire
The Plain of Jars was first extensively studied in 1930 by French researcher Madeleine Colani, who documented 21 sites and proposed their use in burial practices.
Archaeological evidence dates the jars to the Iron Age, between 1240 and 660 BC.
Over the decades, further excavations have uncovered human remains, burial goods, and ceramics, confirming the funerary function of the jars.
The jars were transported from quarries up to eight kilometers away, indicating significant prehistoric engineering efforts.
Despite damage from conflicts in the region, including unexploded ordnance, several sites have been cleared and preserved for study and tourism.
The site remains a key cultural heritage landmark in Laos and Southeast Asia.
Guide du lieu
Site 1 (Ban Ang)Iron Age (1240–660 BC)
The most investigated and accessible jar site located near Phonsavan. It contains around 20 large stone jars and was the focus of Madeleine Colani's initial excavations. Visitors can see the 'frogman' bas-relief on one jar and learn about the burial artifacts discovered here, including human remains and ancient tools.
Stone Discs and Burial MarkersBronze Age
Numerous stone discs found near jar sites likely served as burial markers. They feature carvings of human and animal figures and are part of a broader Bronze Age mortuary landscape around Xiangkhoang.
Site 52
The largest known jar site with 392 jars located near a traditional Hmong village, accessible only by foot. It offers a unique experience of a vast megalithic landscape less frequented by tourists.