UNESCO World Heritage SiteUNESCO Heritage
Laos

Tham An Mah

Stone jar burial site in Laos cave

Location

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Historical Context

About

Tham An Mah, known as Horse Saddle Cave, is an archaeologically significant site in Luang Prabang Province, Laos. Initially excavated in 2010, it is part of the stone jar burial sites from Iron Age Laos, akin to the famed Plain of Jars. Test excavations revealed potential grave markers and pottery remains, one of which dated back to around 13,000 BCE, suggesting early occupation. Unfortunately, subsequent looting severely damaged the site, with looters seeking fine sediment for resale. Despite this, the site offers valuable insights into burial practices and cultural expressions, such as the cave's 1950s Buddhist painting, highlighting its multifaceted historical significance.

Paleolithic
Mesolithic
Neolithic
Chalcolithic
Bronze Age
Iron Age
Classical Period
Post-Classical Period
Early Modern Period
Industrial Period
Contemporary Period
Temporal Epochs

Historical Timeline

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Late Iron Age Burials

300 BCE

Upper Paleolithic Occupation

13,000 BCE

1950s Buddhist Painting

1950 CE

Classification

Archaeological Features

Unique architectural and cultural elements found at this historical site

category

Burial and Funerary Structures

Graves
category

Artistic and Decorative Features

Cave Paintings
category

Environmental and Natural Features

Modified Caves
Knowledge Base

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Reference

Details

Country

Laos

Coordinates

19.88° N, 102.13° E