Identifying characteristics of ancient settlements in Óc Eo culture: A case study of Nhơn Thành site through 2023 excavation results

Abstract

The Nhơn Thành archaeological site has been recognized by Vietnamese archaeologists as a significant residential and jewelry crafting center of the ancient Óc Eo culture, dating from the 4th to the 7th century, through surveys and excavations conducted since the 1990s. This site stands out with its extensive spatial distribution and the distinctive riverbank settlement pattern of the Óc Eo ancient community in the low-lying delta region of Southern Vietnam, along with a unique collection of artifacts reflecting the rich material life and cultural relations of Nhơn Thành. The 5th excavation at Nhơn Thành in 2023 aims to contribute to providing information on the formation of the geographical landscape, ancient environmental conditions, and the changes that have occurred in the past, identifying the livelihoods and daily life of the ancient Nhơn Thành community, and dating this ancient settlement within the context of the Óc Eo culture in Southern Vietnam through archaeological research results and interdisciplinary analysis.