Ancient Pre-Historic Cemetery Excavation Opens at Non Pla Lan
Archaeologists have begun a 20-day excavation at Non Pla Lan, an ancient cemetery near Nakhon Ratchasima, following a blessing ceremony on July 16. Previous digs unearthed 11 skeletons and artifacts suggesting regional trade networks dating
On July 16, 2025, officials including Nakhon Ratchasima Municipality Mayor Dr. Wannarat Chanyanukhul and staff from the Fine Arts Department conducted a blessing ceremony before commencing archaeological excavations at Non Pla Lan, located near the eastern wall of the ancient city of Nakhon Ratchasima. The abbot of Wat Chaeng In presided over the ritual for good fortune. A 20-day excavation project is scheduled from July 20 to August 8, aimed at studying traces of ancient people in the old city and pre-historic era cultures.
Previous work in 2024 uncovered 11 human skeletons—5 from the Saai period and 6 from the Iron Age—along with pre-historic pottery. The site is believed to be a burial ground dating to 1,500–2,400 years ago. Notably, gold ornaments recovered from one skeleton showed elemental composition matching contemporary archaeological sites in Thailand's southern peninsula, suggesting regional trade networks. The excavation integrates input from educational institutions and related organizations.
Beyond the dig itself, officials have opened an exhibition at the site titled "Tracing Ancient Humans of Nakhon Ratchasima Through Archaeological Evidence," summarizing past work and demonstrating human presence in the old city through artifacts. The project seeks to build public awareness and appreciation of archaeology as national cultural heritage under the concept of "advancing scholarship while engaging the community."
