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Indonesia

Bada Valley

Megalithic statues and burial jars in Indonesia.

Time Periods

Paleolithic

Paleolithic

Mesolithic

Mesolithic

Neolithic

Neolithic

Chalcolithic

Chalcolithic

Bronze Age

Bronze Age

Iron Age

Iron Age

Classical Period

Classical Period

Post-Classical Period

Post-Classical Period

Early Modern Period

Early Modern Period

Industrial Period

Industrial Period

Contemporary Period

Contemporary Period

About

The Bada Valley, located in Central Sulawesi, Indonesia, is home to a fascinating collection of megalithic statues and burial jars. These ancient artifacts, locally known as watu and arca, are believed to have been created over a broad time range, with some dating back as far as 5000 BCE and others as recent as 1000 CE. The valley's statues, often depicting stylized human figures with distinctive facial features, are unique in Southeast Asia. The presence of Kalamba, large stone jars used for burials, alongside the statues, suggests a complex ritualistic or funerary significance. Despite their discovery in 1908, the precise purpose and creators of these megaliths remain a mystery. The Bada Valley's megaliths are a testament to the region's rich prehistoric culture and continue to intrigue archaeologists and visitors alike.

Gallery

Explore photographs of ancient structures, artifacts, and archaeological excavations at Bada Valley

FileCOLLECTIE_TROPENMUSEUM_Megalitisch_beeld_in_een_rijstveld_TMnr_20018337.jpg
FileCOLLECTIE_TROPENMUSEUM_Twee_Europese_dames_en_een_man_staan_voor_een_afgodsbeeld_te_Napu_Menado_TMnr_10000852.jpg
FileMohenjodaro_toy_002.jpg

Archaeological Features

Explore the unique architectural and cultural elements found at this historical site

Burial and Funerary Structures

TombsFunerary Urns

Artistic and Decorative Features

Statues

Historical Timeline

Journey through time and discover key events in this site's archaeological history

Plan Your Visit

Details

Country
Indonesia
Source
Wikipedia