Lying along the landscape of the Xieng Khouang plateau lay the remains of thousands of megalithic jars. The arrangements of these jars consist from small clusters to hundreds surrounding the foothills and valleys of the central plain. Early archeologists believe this site is pertinent in Southeast Asian prehistory dating at 500 BCE.

Over ninety sites are known within the providence. The jars vary from height and diameter. The true function of the jars remains unknown. However, the jars are manufactured from sandstone which verifies the designer’s possession of material knowledge and unfortunately there is no conclusive evidence to support how the jars were indeed made.

After much speculation, archeologists concluded and supported the theory of an early Southeast Asian crematory site. It is believed the jars serve as the beginning phase of contemporary funeral practices. The deceased is placed into the urn where crematory practices allow transformation from the earth into the spiritual world.

The Plain of Jars remains one of the most dangerous archeological sites today. During the American bombing campaign in the Vietnam War, many bombs were dropped on and around the location. It is estimated there are more than 10,000 unexploded ordnances in or around the area.

Researched and written by University of West Florida history student Jason Merritt.