Time Periods
Paleolithic
Mesolithic
Neolithic
Chalcolithic
Bronze Age
Iron Age
Classical Period
Post-Classical Period
Early Modern Period
Industrial Period
Contemporary Period
Time Periods
Paleolithic
Mesolithic
Neolithic
Chalcolithic
Bronze Age
Iron Age
Classical Period
Post-Classical Period
Early Modern Period
Industrial Period
Contemporary Period
Location
About
The Lal-lo and Gattaran Shell Middens, located in the Cagayan Valley of the Philippines, represent a significant archaeological site that sheds light on the prehistoric human activities and dietary practices in Southeast Asia. Situated along the Cagayan River, these middens are composed predominantly of the freshwater clam species Batissa childreni. The site features large, varying deposits of shells, with some middens dating back to 2000 BCE and others as recent as 100 CE. The archaeological findings, including stone tools, bones, teeth, and intricately designed pottery, provide valuable insights into the resource utilization and lifestyles of ancient populations in the region. These middens' historical value is further acknowledged by their inclusion in the UNESCO World Heritage Tentative List, emphasizing their cultural and archaeological importance.
Archaeological Features
Explore the unique architectural and cultural elements found at this historical site
Environmental and Natural Features
Historical Timeline
Journey through time and discover key events in this site's archaeological history
Plan Your Visit
Details
- Country
- the Philippines
- Source
- Wikipedia
More Sites in the Philippines

Tabon Caves
Cave system with prehistoric human remains

Kalanay Cave
Small cave with Sa Huynh pottery.

Angono Petroglyphs
Neolithic petroglyphs in volcanic rock shelter
Lapuz Lapuz Cave
Limestone cave with diverse archaeological finds
Pandanan shipwreck
Pre-Spanish Southeast Asian trading shipwreck

Rizal Archaeological Site (Kalinga)
Pleistocene stone tools, rhinoceros fossils