Skull Hill, Malaysia
Malaysia

Skull Hill, Malaysia

Volcanic rock-shelter with Neolithic pottery artifacts

Location

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Historical Context

About

Skull Hill, also known as Bukit Tengkorak, is a significant archaeological site located in Semporna, Malaysia. This volcanic rock-shelter site, part of an extinct volcano mouth, dates back to the Neolithic period, approximately 3,000 years ago. It is renowned for being the largest pottery manufacturing site in Southeast Asia during this period. Excavations have uncovered a wealth of artifacts, including potsherds, stone tools, shell and bone artifacts, and evidence of extensive maritime trade. The site reflects the technological advancements of prehistoric communities and their interaction with other cultures around the Andaman Sea. Its archaeological importance is further emphasized by the continued pottery-making practices of the local Bajau community, connecting ancient traditions to the present day.

Paleolithic
Mesolithic
Neolithic
Chalcolithic
Bronze Age
Iron Age
Classical Period
Post-Classical Period
Early Modern Period
Industrial Period
Contemporary Period
Visual Archive

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FileBukit_Tengkorak.jpg
Temporal Epochs

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Neolithic Pottery Production

3000 BCE

Classification

Archaeological Features

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Industrial and Craft Structures

Workshops
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Environmental and Natural Features

Rock Shelters
Knowledge Base

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Reference

Details

Country

Malaysia

Coordinates

4.44° N, 118.62° E