Megalithic Discoveries in Kasaragod

GS1 – Art & Culture – Archaeological Sites

Ancient megalithic-era relics dating back around 2,000 years have been discovered at Manimoola, located in Kasaragod district, Kerala.

About the Megalithic Period

This era, classified as prehistoric, is noted for its use of large stones in constructing monuments and burial structures.
Nearby, a site known as Pathaya Kallu is traditionally believed to be one such megalithic monument.

Key Artefacts and Features Unearthed

Ceramic Finds:

• A blackware pot, typical of megalithic pottery.
• Uniquely designed four-legged jars.
• Clay pots of various shapes and sizes.
• Vessels resembling lids from larger earthenware containers.

Iron Objects:

• A three-legged iron stove stand supported by stone bases.
• Penknife-like iron implements, possibly used for daily or ritualistic purposes.

Human Remains:

• The site revealed cremated bone fragments, unusually well-preserved—indicating the probable use of sealed burial jars or urns.
• Fragments found beneath a large clay storage jar suggest a deliberate funerary arrangement.
• The rare preservation of bone remains points to airtight burial conditions, which prevented decay.

Architectural Element: Rock-Cut Chamber

• A key structural highlight of the excavation was a rock-cut burial chamber, commonly associated with megalithic funerary customs.
• Across Kasaragod, such chambers are often identified with names like:
  • Pandava Guha
  • Peerangi Guha
  • Muniyara
  • Swamikundu
  • Kalpatthayam

These reflect the local cultural memory of ancient burial practices and their architectural distinctiveness.