Over the past two months LXML’s cultural heritage team uncovered several ancient artefacts backdated to the 18th Century, or the Lane Xang Era. These discoveries reconfirm that Sepon Mine is located in one of the most significant historical mining areas in Southeast Asia.

Copper pots, balls, and ingots were among recent discoveries. The way these items were kept underground show that they were put aside and saved for later use, rather than being used immediately for religious ceremonies, such as offerings for those who passed away.

Four copper pots were uncovered at Discovery pits West and Maideng pit, dating from the Lane Xang Era, between 300 to 2000 years ago. These items were used in daily life.

Another 17 copper ingots were found 500 metres away from Western Phavath Cemetery, aged between 264-1309 BC. These items were mainly used for trade and exchange for goods, like money we use today. While gold and silver may have been common for the rich and powerful, copper was one pure metal ordinary people in the ancient world could get their hands on.

Since 2008, LXML has invested over US$1.3 million to support research into 3,000 years of Lao history and heritage. Our archaeological cooperation program with the Department of Heritage of the Ministry of Information, Culture and Tourism, the National University of Laos, and James Cook University of Australia, sponsors fieldwork that unites a unique community at local, national, and international levels. Volunteers from Vientiane, local villagers, Australian and Lao students, archaeologists and Lao officials stationed at Sepon mine cooperate closely together to conduct research into ancient civilisations. This work helps us to understand how people lived in the past and what it means for our future.

Mining has always been essential in the development of civilisation and society throughout history. Excavations will continue and we look forward to revealing and sharing more exciting discoveries about Lao culture and history as more artefacts are discovered.