Archaeologists Begin Excavating Ancient Human Remains At Don Yai Thong
Archaeologists in Phetchaburi province have begun extracting ancient human skeletal remains from the Don Yai Thong site, with nine skeletons and bronze drums expected to be recovered over approximately one month due to deteriorating ground
On July 2, 2025, an archaeological team from the Fine Arts Department's Ratchaburi office, led by director Nipa Sangkanakindhorn, launched the extraction of ancient human skeletal remains from the Don Yai Thong archaeological site in Ban Don Phlap village, Samoe Phlum subdistrict, Ban Laad district, Phetchaburi province. The team includes archaeologists from the Prachuap Khiri Khan Fine Arts Department office, Silpakorn University's archaeology program, and former skeletal specialists from the Fine Arts Department.
Before beginning work, site owners Kanang Petchsud and Jen Petchsud performed traditional blessings and requested permission to remove the remains from the excavation pit. Director Nipa explained that this marks the first day of the formal extraction process, with support from retired skeletal expert Prapich Phongmasad and experienced archaeology instructors to guide the team's procedures.
The team planned two extraction methods: the first group covers skeletons numbered 1-4, which are layered on top of each other and will be removed in sections over approximately two weeks. The second group, skeletons 5-8, will be lifted as complete platforms using methods overseen by Fine Arts Department scientists to prevent damage, taking about one week. A ninth skeleton, believed to be a child, will also be lifted as a platform due to its fragile condition and the large metal vessel found within its remains.
Additional artifacts still in the pit, including four bronze drums, will be extracted simultaneously. The excavation must proceed due to ongoing ground moisture, saltwater infiltration, groundwater issues, and seasonal rainfall that compromise the skeletal remains and cause metal artifacts to corrode. The extraction phase is expected to take approximately one month, after which the pit will be formally closed. The department plans to display the recovered artifacts, including gold jewelry, glass beads, and colored stone beads discovered in previous work, before beginning comprehensive conservation and analysis.
