The big news update... with a big news update
The Southeast Asian Archaeology Newsletter for 15- 28 April 2024
Hello! I am back from my Songkran break and welcome to a bumper edition of Southeast Asian Archaeology Newsletter. We have quite a few interesting stories from the past two weeks, and I also have a personal announcement to make - the other big news.
First up, a recently-published paper has caused a stir in Philippine archaeology - Olivera et al.’s paper on the existence of a “lost Austronesian kingdom”, the Kalaga Putuan Crescent, was published in the Scopus-listed SciEnggJ, the journal of the Philippine-American Academy of Science and Engineering. The choice of journal should have been my first red flag, but I posted a mention of its publication and it raised a lot of irate comments from our Philippine colleagues, who questioned the speculative paper’s poor citations, use of unprovenanced artefacts, and startling leaps to conclusion (see here and here). Prominent archaeologists Prof. Grace Barretto-Tesoro shared a detailed critique of the paper, while Prof. Stephen Acabado has an editorial in Rappler noting some of the more questionable sources of data used in the paper. Once again, the fact that a controversial paper was published in a journal not related to its field raises questions of both the authors and the editors.
In other news, another sculpture of a turtle/tortoise was discovered in Angkor, this time in the centre of the northeast pond of the Bayon. You may recall that two other turtle sculptures were discovered in the middle of the pandemic at Srah Srang. It appears that the turtle images are used as foundational elements in the construction of reservoirs in Angkor. Also related to Cambodia, the Manhattan DA announced the return of 27 artefacts to the kingdom, related to items seized from dealers Subhash Kapoor and Nancy Weiner. More stories related to repatriations came out over the weekend, and I’ll be posting them during the week.
I am also sad to note the recent passing of two members of our archaeological community - Peter Molijol of the Sarawak Museums Department and Mauro Cucarzi of the Lerici Foundation. I did not know them personally, but I understand that Molijol worked mainly on Sarawakian archaeology, while Cucarzi, an Italian, was known for his work in the restoration of the My Son monuments and later in the restoration work of Bagan. Condolences to their friends and family, and may they rest in peace. Additionally, Dr Farouk Yahya’s obituary of Elizabeth Moore was also just published in Indonesia and the Malay World.
And finally… some big news. As many of you know, I have been based in Bangkok, Thailand for the last ten years as the Senior Specialist in Archaeology at SEAMEO SPAFA. Come August, I will be moving to Jakarta, Indonesia to embark on a new chapter. While I can’t disclose details just yet, I'm thrilled to say I will continue contributing to the cultural sector with a broader scope. While my official capacity in archaeology might see some changes, Southeast Asian Archaeology as a personal passion project will continue, plus I have a few archaeological projects still on the horizon. Stay tuned, and also, I’m happy to get any settling-in tips from readers in Jakarta!
Remember, this Southeast Asian Archaeology newsletter is always free. Paid members have access to the full archive of newsletters and the occasional bonus post. If you’d like to show appreciation or help support my efforts financially please consider buying me a coffee. This week, I want to thank new members Francis Cresotti and returning member Erika Karanitsch for their recent support, which is most appreciated.
And now, on to the news:
Contents
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Highlights of the Week
In no particular order, here are my picks for the five most noteworthy stories from the last two weeks:
Iconic Vishnu Bronze to Be Analyzed in Paris Before 2025 Exhibition
via Le Monde, 21 April 2024: A significant bronze statue of Vishnu is scheduled to be examined and restored in Paris before its display at the Guimet Museum of Asian Arts in April 2025. The statue, originally part of a larger sculpture found in 1936 at Angkor’s West Mebon temple, portrays the Hindu god smiling, despite missing two arms. This artifact, a royal commission from the 11th century, is renowned for its historical and cultural significance. It will undergo thorough analysis by specialists at the Center for Research and Restoration in French Museums, highlighting its pivotal role in the upcoming exhibition on Khmer bronzes.
Archaeological Insights into Ancient Settlements and Climate Change on Alor Island
via The Conversation, 24 April 2024: The island of Alor in East Nusa Tenggara, Indonesia, has revealed fascinating insights into early human adaptation through the archaeological site of Makpan Cave, dated back to 43,000 years ago. This site has shown how the first settlers rapidly adjusted to their new island environment, utilizing marine and later terrestrial resources as climate conditions shifted. Radiocarbon dating of materials from the cave confirms long-term human occupation, marked by significant adaptations to major sea level changes throughout the Pleistocene to Holocene periods. The findings illustrate the resilience and ingenuity of early humans in facing environmental challenges, highlighted by their evolving fishing technologies and dietary shifts in response to changing sea levels.
Malaysian Student Uncovers Historic Malay Texts in Egypt
via The Star, 14 April 2024: Muhammad Nur Hadi Sallehuddin, a Malaysian student at Al-Azhar University in Egypt, has amassed a remarkable collection of nearly 200 Malay scholarly books, dating from the 1920s to the 1960s. These books, authored by prominent Malaysian and regional scholars and printed by Mustafa al-Halabi, cover various Islamic disciplines in Jawi and Acehnese script.
Rediscovering Bohol’s Prehistoric Paintings and Burials
via GMA, 14 April 2024: In Anda, Bohol, Lamanok Point is home to significant prehistoric evidence including hematite rock paintings and burial sites, revealing aspects of early civilization dating back tens of thousands of years. The rock art authenticated by the National Museum of the Philippines, served as ancient community gathering markers. Additional findings at this site include wooden coffins, human skeletons, and jar shards, further illuminating the life of early inhabitants. In 2020, this area was designated as an “Important Cultural Property.”
Bangkok National Museum Showcases Ancient Thai Documents
via Thai PBS, 11 April 2024: The Bangkok National Museum’s latest exhibition, “Precious Siam Inscriptions and Documents,” offers a deep dive into Thailand’s historical and cultural narrative through an extensive collection of artifacts. This includes nineteenth-century stone stelae, palm-leaf manuscripts, and early printed documents. Highlights include the Luang Prasoet Chronicle of Ayutthaya, ancient Thai cosmological texts, historic maps detailing early perceptions of Siam, and legal documents that trace the evolution of Thai jurisprudence.
Featured Books and Recommendations
[Back to Contents]
A selection of new books, some on sale. Some of the links below are affiliate links which mean I may get a commission if you click on them and make a purchase.
Reconstructing God: Style, Hydraulics, Political Power and Angkor's West Mebon Visnu by Marnie Feneley
The Story of Southeast Asia by Eric Thompson
Patterned Splendour: Textiles Presented on Javanese Metal and Stone Sculptures; Eighth to Fifteenth Century by Lesley Pullen
The Oxford Handbook of Early Southeast Asia by C.F.W. Higham and Nam C. Kim
New Research
[Back to Contents]
If you have a newly-published paper that you wish to publicise, contact me and I’ll add it into the next newsletter.
[Paper] Physiography, foraging mobility, and the first peopling of Sahul
via Nature Communications, 23 April 2024: Salles et al. leverage advanced modeling techniques to explore the first peopling of Sahul. By integrating time-evolving landscapes with Lévy walk foraging patterns, researchers have mapped potential migration routes and speeds, suggesting that early Homo sapiens navigated across Sahul by following riverine corridors and coastlines. The study emphasizes a spread of migration from northern and southern entry points, challenging previous models that suggested more constrained routes.
[Paper] Low-Density Urbanisation: Prestate Settlement Growth in a Pacific Society
via Journal of Archaeological Method and Theory, 04 April 2024: Recent research by The Australian National University has unveiled that cities in the Pacific, specifically on the island of Tongatapu in Tonga, were established as early as AD 300 – 700 years earlier than previously believed. This discovery, made possible through aerial laser scanning and detailed fieldwork, suggests that urbanization in the Pacific was an indigenous innovation independent of Western influence.
via SciEnggJ, 31 March 2024: Recent archaeological, ceramic, and genetic studies have shed light on a previously unrecognized Austronesian kingdom in the Southeastern Philippines, named the Kalaga Putuan Crescent, that thrived for over 13 centuries. This kingdom supposedly played a pivotal role in the development of Austronesian maritime technology and was a central hub in the Central Maritime Triangle trade network, connecting the Spice Islands, China, India, the Middle East, and Europe, but the paper is highly disputed among Philippine archaeologists. It is notable that none of the authors of the paper have a background in archaeology.
Announcements
[Back to Contents]
Contact me if you have a call for papers or job posting that you want to publicise.
[Course] Curating Myanmar and Northern Thailand
This innovative online course at SOAS offers an in-depth look at the art and culture of Myanmar and Northern Thailand through eight lectures led by top curators and scholars. Participants will gain insights into museum curation, community engagement, and the historical and cultural connections between the two regions, using media such as Buddhist art, ceramics, and architecture.
[Job] HKU – Professor/Associate Professor on tenure term in Global and Area Studies
Southeast Asian Studies job opportunity at the University of Hong Kong. Deadline for applications is 01 May 2024.
via ICOMOS: ICOMOS is accepting applications for its 2nd edition of the Culture-Nature Prize until May 31, 2024. This prize aims to promote and support outstanding Culture-Nature initiatives by its members that effectively blend cultural and natural heritage. Projects eligible for the €15,000 prize will demonstrate innovative connections between culture and nature and contribute significantly to heritage conservation, amidst challenges like climate change and urbanization.
Upcoming Events
[Back to Contents]
Contact me if you have an event, public lecture or job posting that you want to publicise.
11-12 May 2024: The International Symposium of Minpaku for the 50th Anniversary of the Museum’s Founding ” Human and Cultural Heritages from Maritime Perspectives” (Osaka, Japan)
16 May 2024: Recalling a Trans-local Past: Thailand’s Mon-language Manuscripts (Bangkok, Thailand)
21 May 2024: The ancient town of Si Thep in Thailand: A crossroads of Indianization (London, UK)
23 May - 11 July 2024: Curating Myanmar and Northern Thailand (Online)
24 May 2024: The Buddha’s Relics and the Wandering Thai Monk: The Piprahwa Controversy in Colonial India and its Siamese Afterlife (Bangkok, Thailand)
1 June 2024: Conference on Jataka Tradition of Thailand (Bangkok, Thailand)
10-14 June 2024: SPAFACON2024 (Bangkok, Thailand)
23-26 September 2024: International Forum on the Spice Route (Jakarta, Indonesia)
Southeast Asia
[Back to Contents] [Archaeology of Southeast Asia]
[Obituary] Elizabeth Moore (1949–2024)
via Indonesia and the Malay World, 17 April 2024: Dr Farouk Yahya's obituary of the late Prof. Elizabeth Moore.
[Book] The Story of Southeast Asia
A new book by Eric C. Thompson published by NUS Press takes a multidisciplinary look at Southeast Asian history. Available through the NUS Press link below or alternatively my Amazon affiliate link here.
via ICOMOS: ICOMOS is accepting applications for its 2nd edition of the Culture-Nature Prize until May 31, 2024. This prize aims to promote and support outstanding Culture-Nature initiatives by its members that effectively blend cultural and natural heritage. Projects eligible for the €15,000 prize will demonstrate innovative connections between culture and nature and contribute significantly to heritage conservation, amidst challenges like climate change and urbanization.
Cambodia
[Back to Contents] [Archaeology of Cambodia]
Phnom Kulen Set to Become an Eco-tourism Hub with Rich Cultural Heritage
via Khmer Times, 25 April 2024: Phnom Kulen National Park, revered as the birthplace of the ancient Khmer Empire, is poised to become a prime eco-tourism destination following its inclusion on UNESCO’s Tentative Lists. Spanning over 62,883 hectares, the park is a treasure trove of cultural and natural attractions, including over 155 archaeological sites and a variety of eco-tourism activities.
Bak Kheng Style Statue Head Found Near Old Temple Site in Cambodia
via Khmer Times, 25 April 2024: A resident of Banteay Meanchey province discovered the head of a Bak Kheng style sculpture from the late 9th and early 10th centuries and donated it to the local museum. This valuable artifact, believed to be from the reign of King Yasovarman I, was found near an old temple site in Mongkul Borei district. The local Department of Culture and Fine Arts praised the community’s role in preserving such artifacts, emphasizing the importance of safeguarding these cultural legacies for future generations.
12th Century Tortoise Statue Unearthed at Bayon Temple
via Khmer Times, 24 April 2024: A significant archaeological discovery was made by the Apsara National Authority at Bayon Temple, where a sandstone tortoise statue dating back to the 12th century was unearthed in the northeast pond. Preserved in excellent condition, the tortoise is believed to symbolize happiness, prosperity, and development. This find is part of ongoing efforts to restore the historical ponds of the temple to their original form.
US Hands Over Precious Cambodian Statues Worth Millions
via Khmer Times, 24 April 2024: The Manhattan District Attorney’s Office in New York has facilitated the return of 27 valuable Cambodian artifacts, totaling $2.4 million. This repatriation involves Buddhist and Hindu statues, including rare Angkorian pieces, thanks to the joint efforts of various Cambodian and US agencies. The artifacts, which had been held by art dealers involved in illegal antiquities trafficking, represent a significant cultural recovery for Cambodia. An exact date for their return has not been set as arrangements for further collection and transportation continue.
Unraveling the Layers of Angkor’s History
via Le Monde, 21 April 2024: Christophe Pottier, a seasoned archaeologist with the Ecole Française d’Extrême-Orient, spent 18 years studying Angkor, shedding light on its evolution from a sixth-century capital to a major urban center until the 16th century. His work reveals that Angkor, often described as a “big garden,” has been occupied for over 3,000 years, including significant prehistoric settlements.
Archaeological Insight into Angkor’s 11th-Century Bronze Foundry
via Le Monde, 21 April 2024: Since 2016, an archaeometallurgical study has been revealing insights into the 11th-century foundry at the royal palace of Angkor, as part of a Franco-Cambodian research project. This site, the only known foundry of its era in Cambodia, was crucial for casting bronze statues for the kings of Angkor. Situated behind the Terrace of the Leper King, the area has unearthed remnants of the bronzesmiths’ craft and traces of metal linked to ancient copper mines.
Iconic Vishnu Bronze to Be Analyzed in Paris Before 2025 Exhibition
via Le Monde, 21 April 2024: A significant bronze statue of Vishnu is scheduled to be examined and restored in Paris before its display at the Guimet Museum of Asian Arts in April 2025. The statue, originally part of a larger sculpture found in 1936 at Angkor’s West Mebon temple, portrays the Hindu god smiling, despite missing two arms. This artifact, a royal commission from the 11th century, is renowned for its historical and cultural significance. It will undergo thorough analysis by specialists at the Center for Research and Restoration in French Museums, highlighting its pivotal role in the upcoming exhibition on Khmer bronzes.
Cambodia’s Relocation Program at Angkor Site Sparks Controversy
via AP News, 11 April 204: The relocation of approximately 5,000 families from Cambodia’s Angkor UNESCO World Heritage site to Run Ta Ek has raised significant human rights concerns. Criticized by Amnesty International as a violation of international law, the move aimed to protect the heritage site from illegal squatters has faced scrutiny. Despite improvements in infrastructure at the new settlement, many residents struggle with debt, reduced income, and a lack of job opportunities, contrasting sharply with their previous lives near the tourism-dependent Angkor site.
Koh Ker’s UNESCO Listing Ignites New Interest in Cambodia
via Khmer Times, 10 April 2024: The inclusion of Koh Ker in the UNESCO World Heritage List marks a significant turning point for Cambodia’s tourism industry. This recognition not only alleviates the over-tourism pressures on Angkor Wat but also enhances Cambodia’s appeal by offering a new destination for cultural and historical exploration. Industry experts highlight the potential of Koh Ker to attract diverse tourist demographics, including academics and history enthusiasts, thus supporting sustainable tourism development.
[Video] Cartographie archéologique / Archaeological mapping
via EFEO, 01 April 2024: A short video documentary in memory of the late Damian Evans and his work on archaeological mapping using LiDAR.
Indonesia
[Back to Contents] [Archaeology of Indonesia]
Archaeological Insights into Ancient Settlements and Climate Change on Alor Island
via The Conversation, 24 April 2024: The island of Alor in East Nusa Tenggara, Indonesia, has revealed fascinating insights into early human adaptation through the archaeological site of Makpan Cave, dated back to 43,000 years ago. This site has shown how the first settlers rapidly adjusted to their new island environment, utilizing marine and later terrestrial resources as climate conditions shifted. Radiocarbon dating of materials from the cave confirms long-term human occupation, marked by significant adaptations to major sea level changes throughout the Pleistocene to Holocene periods. The findings illustrate the resilience and ingenuity of early humans in facing environmental challenges, highlighted by their evolving fishing technologies and dietary shifts in response to changing sea levels.
Laos
[Back to Contents] [Archaeology of Laos]
[Video] Cartographie archéologique / Archaeological mapping
via EFEO, 01 April 2024: A short video documentary in memory of the late Damian Evans and his work on archaeological mapping using LiDAR.
Malaysia
[Back to Contents] [Archaeology of Malaysia]
UNESCO Bid Could Transform Niah National Park into Major Tourist Attraction
via New Straits Times, 15 April 2024: Sarawak could experience a significant economic uplift if Niah National Park is designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, according to Deputy Minister Datuk Rosey Yunus. Speaking at an Aidilfitri open house event, Rosey highlighted the potential for the park to attract both international and domestic tourists, enhancing Sarawak’s tourism sector.
Malaysian Student Uncovers Historic Malay Texts in Egypt
via The Star, 14 April 2024: Muhammad Nur Hadi Sallehuddin, a Malaysian student at Al-Azhar University in Egypt, has amassed a remarkable collection of nearly 200 Malay scholarly books, dating from the 1920s to the 1960s. These books, authored by prominent Malaysian and regional scholars and printed by Mustafa al-Halabi, cover various Islamic disciplines in Jawi and Acehnese script.
Myanmar
[Back to Contents] [Archaeology of Myanmar]
[Obituary] Elizabeth Moore (1949–2024)
via Indonesia and the Malay World, 17 April 2024: Dr Farouk Yahya's obituary of the late Prof. Elizabeth Moore.
[Course] Curating Myanmar and Northern Thailand
This innovative online course at SOAS offers an in-depth look at the art and culture of Myanmar and Northern Thailand through eight lectures led by top curators and scholars. Participants will gain insights into museum curation, community engagement, and the historical and cultural connections between the two regions, using media such as Buddhist art, ceramics, and architecture.
[Talk] Recalling a Trans-local Past: Thailand’s Mon-language Manuscripts
Readers may be interested in this talk by Dr Patrick McCormick on Mon manuscripts at the Siam Society on 16 May 2024.
Philippines
[Back to Contents] [Archaeology of the Philippines]
National Museum and Archdiocese of Cebu Collaborate on Conservation of Historic Panels
via Rappler, 21 April 2024: The National Museum of the Philippines and the Archdiocese of Cebu have committed to prioritizing the conservation of four significant 19th-century pulpit panels from the heritage church of Boljoon. During a productive meeting, which discussed the condition and future of these culturally important wood panels, both parties agreed to focus on their preservation despite ongoing discussions about ownership.
The Transformative Power of Mentorship in Shaping Academic Careers
via Rappler, 21 April 2024: Prof. Stephen Acabado’s story of his transformation into a respected academic highlights the profound impact of mentorship. Beginning with a setback in high school, the narrative follows his journey through mentor-guided opportunities and self-discovery that not only revived his interest in history but also set him on a path to academic excellence.
Rediscovering Bohol’s Prehistoric Paintings and Burials
via GMA, 14 April 2024: In Anda, Bohol, Lamanok Point is home to significant prehistoric evidence including hematite rock paintings and burial sites, revealing aspects of early civilization dating back tens of thousands of years. The rock art authenticated by the National Museum of the Philippines, served as ancient community gathering markers. Additional findings at this site include wooden coffins, human skeletons, and jar shards, further illuminating the life of early inhabitants. In 2020, this area was designated as an “Important Cultural Property.”
via SciEnggJ, 31 March 2024: Recent archaeological, ceramic, and genetic studies have shed light on a previously unrecognized Austronesian kingdom in the Southeastern Philippines, named the Kalaga Putuan Crescent, that thrived for over 13 centuries. This kingdom supposedly played a pivotal role in the development of Austronesian maritime technology and was a central hub in the Central Maritime Triangle trade network, connecting the Spice Islands, China, India, the Middle East, and Europe, but the paper is highly disputed among Philippine archaeologists. It is notable that none of the authors of the paper have a background in archaeology.
Thailand
[Back to Contents] [Archaeology of Thailand]
Thailand Submits Songkhla Lagoon for Cultural Heritage Listing
via The Nation, 12 April 2024: Thailand has officially submitted Songkhla Lake and its lagoon settlements for UNESCO World Heritage consideration, with the proposal reviewed by the committee in New Delhi in July. The area, a significant ecological and cultural landmark in southern Thailand, spans 1,040 square kilometers and is noted for its rich biodiversity and historical significance. If approved, Songkhla could join Thailand’s prestigious list of cultural heritage sites by 2025.
Bangkok National Museum Showcases Ancient Thai Documents
via Thai PBS, 11 April 2024: The Bangkok National Museum’s latest exhibition, “Precious Siam Inscriptions and Documents,” offers a deep dive into Thailand’s historical and cultural narrative through an extensive collection of artifacts. This includes nineteenth-century stone stelae, palm-leaf manuscripts, and early printed documents. Highlights include the Luang Prasoet Chronicle of Ayutthaya, ancient Thai cosmological texts, historic maps detailing early perceptions of Siam, and legal documents that trace the evolution of Thai jurisprudence.
[Course] Curating Myanmar and Northern Thailand
This innovative online course at SOAS offers an in-depth look at the art and culture of Myanmar and Northern Thailand through eight lectures led by top curators and scholars. Participants will gain insights into museum curation, community engagement, and the historical and cultural connections between the two regions, using media such as Buddhist art, ceramics, and architecture.
[Talk] The ancient town of Si Thep in Thailand: A crossroads of Indianization
Readers in the London may be interested in this talk by Dr Nicolas Revire at SOAS on the newly-minted Unesco World Heritage Site of Si Thep.
[Talk] Recalling a Trans-local Past: Thailand’s Mon-language Manuscripts
Readers may be interested in this talk by Dr Patrick McCormick on Mon manuscripts at the Siam Society on 16 May 2024.
Vietnam
[Back to Contents] [Archaeology of Vietnam]
Hanoi Marks 1,085 Years Since Co Loa Became Ancient Capital
via Vietnam Net, 21 April 2024: Hanoi celebrated the 1,085th anniversary of King Ngo Quyen’s coronation and the establishment of Co Loa as the national capital on April 19, 939. The ceremony highlighted Co Loa’s historical and cultural significance, located in Dong Anh District. King Ngo Quyen, a pivotal figure in Vietnamese history, was celebrated for ending over a thousand years of Chinese dominion and establishing the Ngo Dynasty’s capital at Co Loa Citadel, a site renowned for its ancient spiral structure and historical depth.
Exploring 2000 Years of Vietnamese History at Hanoi Exhibition
via Vietnam Plus, 19 April 2024: The Hanoi Museum celebrated the Hung King’s Commemoration Day and the centennial of Dong Son Culture research with the “Echoes” exhibition on April 18. This event showcased nearly 100 artifacts, including national treasures like the Co Loa bronze drums, highlighting Vietnam’s rich history from 2,000 years ago. The exhibition paid tribute to Vietnam’s ancestors and the discovery of Dong Son, showcasing the advanced bronze casting techniques and cultural practices of the era.
Lào and White Thái Traditions Honored as National Heritage
via Viet Nam News, 13 April 2024: Điện Biên Province has two new additions to the National Intangible Cultural Heritage list: the decorative art on costumes by the Lào ethnic group and the traditional cake-making of the White Thái ethnic group. These recognitions highlight the intricate handwoven textiles symbolic of the Lào community and the celebrated khẩu xén and chí chọp cakes, integral to White Thái culinary traditions.
Peripheral Southeast Asia
[Back to Contents] [Archaeology of ‘Peripheral’ Southeast Asia]
[Paper] Physiography, foraging mobility, and the first peopling of Sahul
via Nature Communications, 23 April 2024: Salles et al. leverage advanced modeling techniques to explore the first peopling of Sahul. By integrating time-evolving landscapes with Lévy walk foraging patterns, researchers have mapped potential migration routes and speeds, suggesting that early Homo sapiens navigated across Sahul by following riverine corridors and coastlines. The study emphasizes a spread of migration from northern and southern entry points, challenging previous models that suggested more constrained routes.
[Job] HKU – Professor/Associate Professor on tenure term in Global and Area Studies
Southeast Asian Studies job opportunity at the University of Hong Kong. Deadline for applications is 01 May 2024.
[Paper] Low-Density Urbanisation: Prestate Settlement Growth in a Pacific Society
via Journal of Archaeological Method and Theory, 04 April 2024: Recent research by The Australian National University has unveiled that cities in the Pacific, specifically on the island of Tongatapu in Tonga, were established as early as AD 300 – 700 years earlier than previously believed. This discovery, made possible through aerial laser scanning and detailed fieldwork, suggests that urbanization in the Pacific was an indigenous innovation independent of Western influence.