Archaeologists to excavate ancient Pyu site

Summary

The ruins in Irrawaddy Xing Kapoor township may represent some of the earliest walled cities in Burma, dating back to the Pugh era. Archaeologists are eager to explore connections to the ancient Pugh kingdom, as the site spans eight square miles and features Buddhist temples, statues, and city walls. Evidence suggests that early inhabitants migrated from modern-day Yunnan, establishing city-states along key rivers that were crucial for trade between China and India. If proven to be from the Pugh era, this site could become one of Burma's most significant ancient settlements.

Takeaways

• 🏛️ The site in Irrawaddy Xing Kapoor township may be one of the earliest walled cities in Burma.
• 📅 It is believed to date back to the Pugh era, making it potentially significant for historical research.
• 🔍 Archaeologists are eager to investigate if this site connects to the ancient Pugh kingdom.
• 🕌 The area spans approximately eight square miles and includes Buddhist temples, statues, and an old city wall.
• 🌏 Inhabitants migrated from modern-day Yunnan to Burma around the second century BC.
• 🚶‍♂️ These early settlers established city-states along the Irrawaddy and Chindwin rivers, crucial for trade routes between China and India.
• 🏺 Ruins from these ancient cities are found throughout central Burma, indicating a rich historical tapestry.
• 🗺️ So far, 12 walled cities have been excavated in Burma, highlighting the region's historical importance.
• 🔗 If the Inga poo site is confirmed to be from the Pugh era, it could represent one of the oldest recorded settlements in the country.
• 📚 The exploration of these ruins is vital for understanding the cultural and historical evolution of Burma.

Q & A

What is the significance of the ruins mentioned in the transcript?

The ruins could be part of one of the first walled cities in Burma, believed to be linked to the ancient Pugh kingdom.

Where is this archaeological site located?

The site is located in Irrawaddy Xing Kapoor township.

How old is the site estimated to be?

The site is believed to be as old as the Pugh era.

What features does the site contain?

The site contains Buddhist temples, statues, and an old city wall, spanning around eight square miles.

What historical migration is referenced in the transcript?

The transcript mentions that people migrated from modern-day Yunnan into Burma in the second century BC.

What were the early inhabitants of Burma known for?

They built city-states along the Irrawaddy and Chindwin rivers, which were part of an overland trade route between China and India.

How many walled cities have been excavated in Burma so far?

So far, twelve walled cities have been excavated in Burma.

What could the discovery of the Inga Poo site mean for Burmese history?

If the site is found to be from the Pugh era, it could be one of the most ancient recorded settlements in the country.

What role did the Irrawaddy and Chindwin rivers play in the ancient cities?

These rivers were crucial for trade and transportation, supporting the development of city-states in ancient Burma.

Why are archaeologists interested in this site?

Archaeologists are keen to prove its connection to the ancient Pugh kingdom, which would provide significant insights into Burma's historical development.