These Ancient Jars Baffled Experts for Centuries — Until One Was Opened

Thousands of giant stone vessels stand across the Xieng Khouang Plateau in northern Laos, some reaching several metres high and weighing tons. Known as the Plain of Jars, they have inspired theories about food storage, rice wine, and burial rituals for nearly a century.

A complete excavation of Jar 1 at Site 75 has now provided the strongest direct evidence. Inside, archaeologists found a dense collection of human remains from at least 37 people, revealing a multigenerational funerary practice rather than a single burial.