"Thought It Was a Snake Den..." Indonesian Resident Discovers 'Seokgul Tomb' While Digging Drainage

A resident of East Java, Indonesia, discovered a cave tomb containing human remains and artifacts while digging a drainage ditch. Photo by Surya.

[Asia Economy Reporter Kim Bong-ju] A resident of East Java Province, Indonesia, discovered a stone cave tomb containing human bones and artifacts while digging a drainage ditch.

According to Tribun News on the 14th, Wasit (43), who lives in Rojajar Village, Bondowoso Regency, East Java Province, found a hole about 8 cm in diameter that appeared to be a 'snake hole' while digging near a pile of rocks near his house around 11 a.m. on the 12th to create a drainage ditch.

Wasit said, "When I shone a flashlight into the hole, it looked quite large," adding, "Since snakes often appear in the village, at first I thought it was a snake hole and was scared."

He added, "Still curious, I looked around and found a fairly large stone box-shaped object blocking the cave entrance."

Upon entering the cave, there was enough space for about six adults to crouch inside.

Artifacts discovered by Wasit inside the stone chamber tomb. Photo by Surya.

Broken human bones, traditional knives called keris, swords, gold bracelets, and pottery containing beads were found in this place.

Wasit informed the government of the discovery through the village chief. The cave he found is presumed to be a 'stone cave tomb.'

The person in charge of history and artifacts in the regency said, "Research on ancient humans who lived in our regency has not been properly conducted," adding, "Even when residents discover megalithic tombs or stone cave tombs, many do not follow archaeological procedures, handle them carelessly, or fail to report them. If cultural heritage is discovered like this, please do not touch it and report it immediately."