Archaeology Field Trip

by Jimmie on March 30, 2006

We had a fabulous opportunity this week!  We went to an actual archaeological dig site!  It still has not been completely excavated.  The officials have stopped temporarily to build a museum over the site.  Once that is built, they will continue the digging.

Jimmie with Stone Sacrificial Statues

It was fascinating!  The site 3000 years ago was a religious area used for sacrificing  to God/gods.  Not a lot is known about the hows and whys.  Most of what was found (besides animal bones and antlers) was jade, gold, ivory, bronze, and stone offerings.  All these things were offered to God/gods and then buried in the area. The museum is not open to the public, so generally people cannot go to see the relics. We arranged this through a special tour guide.  Only 17 foreigners have ever seen the items!  We feel very privileged!  The objects were not behind glass. We couldn’t touch them, but a guide was there wearing gloves. She did pick things up for us to see backsides or a closer view for intricate carvings or very faint paint.  HOW NEAT!

We had to check our bags and purses before going in to the relic room. And two security guards watched us the whole time. Some of these things are national treasures!!!!

It was a great learning experience for Sprite. She spotted an ivory tusk still embedded in the dirt. She was so fascinated by the dig site and wanted to start digging!    (Of course we were not allowed. We had to stay on the platforms built above the ground.)  Now she wants to be an archaeologist!

Mother Daughter Archaeology Team

Jade offered as sacrifice

Gold offered as sacrifice




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