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Ancient engravings discovered to the surprise of park rangers in a 2,000-year-old Thai cave

Wildlife patrolling in Northern Thailand has unveiled a sandstone cave housing ancient carvings from prehistoric times.

Ancient cave with engravings uncovered during routine ranger patrol in Thailand, dating back...
Ancient cave with engravings uncovered during routine ranger patrol in Thailand, dating back approximately 2,000 years.

Ancient engravings discovered to the surprise of park rangers in a 2,000-year-old Thai cave

In the lush forests of Phitsanulok Province, a sandstone cave with a natural monument-like appearance, boasting pink and brown hues, has been unearthed. Named the Takung Cave, this significant find was made in the Nabua Subdistrict, hidden in thick vegetation for approximately 2,000 years.

The discovery occurred during a routine patrol by rangers who were originally conducting conservation work to monitor poaching and wildlife in the Khwae Noi River basin. The rangers stumbled upon the cave on August 14 to 16, 2022, marking a remarkable moment for Thai archaeology.

Upon entering the cave, patrol officers found well-preserved engravings of geometric lines and three-finger patterns, suggesting human occupation and use. These prehistoric markings could potentially date back to Thailand's Metal Age, which includes the Bronze and Iron Ages.

The Fine Arts Office 6 in Sukhothai is currently studying the cave markings to determine their exact age and historical significance. The Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation (DNP) considers the find as good news for Thai archaeology, as it could provide new insights into human occupation in the Khwae Noi River basin.

The discovery of Takung Cave, along with others, might open up a new dimension in research. The Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation encourages regular forest patrols, not only for conserving wildlife and ecosystems but also for making valuable historical discoveries.

The Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation has named the cave Takung Cave, as it is located in the Khun Nam Ton, Ang Khon Kaen, and Tam Takung Forests. The discovery has been hailed as "remarkable," and the information it holds could offer valuable insights into Thailand's prehistoric past.

At this time, the search results do not provide information about which researchers or institutions will examine the archaeological finds in the Takung cave system in Thailand. However, the excitement and anticipation for what this discovery might reveal about Thailand's past are palpable.

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