Dating the megalithic culture of laos: Radiocarbon, optically stimulated luminescence and U/Pb zircon results

The megalithic jar sites of Laos (often referred to as the Plain Jars) remain one Southeast Asia’s most mysterious and least understood archaeological cultures. sites, recently inscribed UNESCO World Heritage, host hollowed stone jars, up three metres in height, which appear scattered across landscape, alone or clustered groups more than 400. Until now, it has not been possible estimate when jars were first placed on landscape from where was sourced. Geochronological analysis using age detrital zircons demonstrates a likely quarry source for largest sites. Optically Stimulated Luminescence (OSL) dating suggests positioned at potentially early late second millennium BC. Radiocarbon skeletal remains charcoal samples places mortuary activity around 9-13th century AD, suggesting have maintained ritual significance period their initial placement until historic times.