Shocking archaeological discoveries from Trang An

Shocking discoveries at Trang An confirm that this place is a "living museum" of natural evolution and human culture.

On September 27, the International Conference on Scientific Research in Association with Management, Conservation and Promotion of the World Cultural and Natural Heritage of Trang An Scenic Landscape Complex took place with the participation of Mr. Nguyen Minh Vu - Permanent Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs, Chairman of the Vietnam National Commission for UNESCO; Mr. Hoang Dao Cuong - Deputy Minister of Culture, Sports and Tourism and domestic and international experts and scientists.

Many domestic and international delegates attended the conference.

Speaking at the conference, Mr. Tran Song Tung - Vice Chairman of Ninh Binh Provincial People's Committee emphasized: "The conference is not only important in continuing to affirm the commitment and efforts of Ninh Binh province in scientific research but also an opportunity to introduce some outstanding results of the SUNDASIA Archaeological Research Program".

Prehistoric humans nearly 13,000 years old discovered

The results of archaeological research and exploration at Thung Binh 1 cave in Trang An Scenic Complex have brought about important discoveries: prehistoric human remains dating back over 12,000 years, along with data on stratigraphy, ancient flora and fauna, and burial methods.

Mr. Tran Song Tung - Vice Chairman of Ninh Binh Provincial People's Committee.

Mr. Tung affirmed: "The discovery of prehistoric human remains nearly 13,000 years old at Trang An scenic complex, along with data on chronology, stratigraphy, ancient flora and fauna, and burial forms of prehistoric people, has contributed to affirming Trang An as a living museum of natural evolution and human culture. This also represents rare scientific evidence that sheds light on the process of human habitation and adaptation to environmental change, as well as adding valuable documents on anthropology and genetics."

The discovery of the skeleton of the 'Trang An warrior' is a big step forward in archaeology.

The discovery of prehistoric human remains nearly 13,000 years old in Ninh Binh was published in the Proceedings of the Royal Society of England and was published, quoted and reported by over 500 news agencies, scientific journals, specialized blogs and domestic and international information sites. This has raised the position of Ninh Binh and Vietnam on the world heritage and tourism map.

According to Dr. Ryan John Rabett, archaeologist at Queen's University Belfast (UK), Director of the archaeological research project at Trang An, the excavation that lasted nearly 10 years has brought about shocking discoveries.

Dr. Ryan Rabett.

Specifically, scientists found a nearly intact human skeleton well preserved in special geological conditions. Radiocarbon dating showed that the skeleton belonged to the late Ice Age (12,000-12,500 years ago). This man, about 35 years old, had traces of a quartz spear piercing his neck. The spear was nearly 2cm long, with traces of making, but no other quartz tools were found in the cave, suggesting the possibility of foreign technology.

According to Dr. Ryan Rabett, the SUNDASIA project has been implemented since 2016 for nearly 10 years with the participation of more than 100 scientists, archaeologists and international and Vietnamese experts. The project has excavated at 7 locations to help better understand prehistoric people and how they lived here, and the biggest discovery is the skeleton of a "Trang An warrior" nearly 13,000 years old in Thung Binh 1 cave.

Dr. Christopher Simpton informs about the excavation process and discovery of the skeleton of the 'Trang An warrior'

Dr. Christopher Simpton, an archaeologist at Queen's University Belfast (UK), a member of the project, informed about the beginning of the archaeological excavation at Thung Binh Cave and the discovery in 2017 of an intact right shoulder bone of an adult male, 1.7m tall, about 35 years old. Later, archaeologists excavated all parts of this man's body.

Dr. Christopher Mark Stimpson said this is the oldest evidence of conflict between prehistoric groups in mainland Southeast Asia.

Images during excavation at Trang An scenic complex.

Affirming outstanding global value

Prehistoric human skull found in Trang An.

According to Mr. Jonathan Baker - Chief Representative of UNESCO in Vietnam, recent research results at Trang An not only help to better understand the connection between humans and nature over thousands of years but also affirm the outstanding global value, the fundamental reason for Trang An to be recognized as a World Heritage Site.

This discovery enriches the story of Trang An as a vibrant cultural landscape that continues to inspire research, innovation and sustainable development, he stressed.

Experts said the conference was not only an academic forum but also demonstrated a common commitment to connecting science, policy and community to protect heritage. The published works will contribute to shaping conservation strategies, expanding international cooperation and promoting the role of communities - the real subjects of heritage.

At the conference, Dr. Nguyen Viet, Director of the Southeast Asian Prehistory Center, also outlined the orientation for developing the experiential tourism product Living with prehistoric people in Trang An, contributing to spreading the heritage value and promoting sustainable development.

Source: https://vietnamnet.vn/nhung-phat-hien-khao-co-chan-dong-tu-trang-an-2446704.html