| Abstract: |
The menhirs or standing stones in Laos are mainly situated in the northern part of the country, and constitute the most visible remains from the megalithic culture period in Laos. Already well known are the monuments and stone jars in Xieng Khuang, an area now under investigation by Unesco in cooperation with Lao authorities. The standing stones most probably indicate ancient cemeteries. So far, these are one of our richest sources of knowledge about the past in this region. The burial remains not only help us to interpret the intricate rituals and the beiefs of those ancient civilizations, but also provide a wealth of grave goods that give us a record of the technologies available. Elaborate burials have also been found in the highlands of north Laos.
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