Fine Arts Department Removes Final Skeletal Remains from Ancient Site
Archaeologists from Thailand's Fine Arts Department have removed seven ancient skeletons, estimated at 1,500–2,000 years old, from an excavation site in Phetchaburi province using specialized conservation techniques and a 10-ton crane.
At the Don Yai Thong archaeological excavation site in Ban Don Phlap, Samot Phraeao subdistrict, Ban Lad district, Phetchaburi province, archaeologists from the Fine Arts Department's Ratchaburi office coordinated with conservation science personnel to relocate ancient human skeletal remains estimated to be 1,500–2,000 years old. Using a 10-ton crane, officials lifted two sets of support bases containing a total of seven skeletons: set one holding skeletons numbered 5–8 (four skeletons) and set two holding skeletons numbered 9–11 (three skeletons). Each base measured approximately 1 meter wide and 2.5 meters long, weighing 1.2–1.5 tons.
Before extraction, conservation staff excavated soil around each skeleton on all four sides in a rectangular pattern and covered the remains with acid-free paper. The skeletons were then sprayed with distilled water at intervals and sealed with aluminum foil sheets to prevent chemical contamination. Polyurethane foam was injected into the gaps to protect both the skeletal remains and the supporting soil layer from damage. The remains were scheduled to be transported to the Science Conservation Center in Khlong Ha subdistrict, Khlong Luang district, Pathum Thani, on the morning of August 22, 2026.
