Tracing Austronesian Origins at the Keqiutou Neolithic Site
Archaeologists have recently unearthed numerous stone tools at the Keqiutou Neolithic site in Fuzhou, Fujian Province, dating back between 5,000 and 6,500 years. These remarkable artifacts bear a striking resemblance to those discovered at the Dachakeng ruins in Taiwan, suggesting that the Keqiutou site may have been home to the ancestors of the Austronesian peoples.
The findings at Keqiutou have significantly enhanced our understanding of how prehistoric populations along China's southeastern coast utilized marine resources. Moreover, they provide valuable insights into the spread of prehistoric agricultural culture to the islands of Southeast Asia. Such discoveries are crucial for tracing the origins and migration patterns of Austronesian communities across the region.
Recognizing its importance, the Keqiutou site was honored as one of China's top 10 archaeological discoveries of 2023, highlighting its role in uncovering the ancient history of the Austronesian lineage.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
