Teouma

Teouma is a significant archaeological site situated near Teouma Bay on Éfaté Island in Vanuatu, known for having the oldest cemetery in the Pacific Islands. Excavations at the site revealed 26 inhumations of 36 individuals, dating from approximately 3200 to 3000 years ago, tying them to the Lapita people. The site is characterized by red pottery fragments with intricate designs, and a unique burial practice where skulls were removed and replaced with cone shell rings, indicating a ceremonial culture. Isotopic and genetic analyses revealed insights into human migration patterns, suggesting a connection with the Ami and Atayal people from Taiwan and the Kankanaey from the Philippines. These findings provide critical evidence of early human settlement and mobility in the Pacific region.