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Muniyara (Dolmen), Nannangadi (Urn Burial)

🪨 Muniyara (Dolmen)

A Muniyara is one of Kerala's ancient Megalithic burial monuments, commonly known as a Dolmen. These stone structures were built using massive granite slabs arranged to form a chamber-like enclosure.

According to archaeologists, Muniyaras belong to the Iron Age / Megalithic Period (approximately 1000 BCE – 300 BCE). They are believed to have served as burial chambers or memorial monuments for the deceased.

In the Muppuzha region of Kuthannur Grama Panchayat, 103 Muniyaras have been discovered. These structures were constructed by placing large granite slabs—approximately 7 feet long and 4–5 feet wide—on all four sides with another slab covering the top. The burial chamber was partially buried underground, where the body was placed before being sealed with the stone roof.

A distinctive feature of these dolmens is a circular opening, about 30 centimetres in diameter, located on the north-eastern side of the structure. Archaeologists believe this opening may have had ritualistic or ceremonial significance.

Muniyara

🏺 Nannangadi (Urn Burial)

Nannangadi, also known as an Urn Burial, is another important burial tradition associated with Kerala's Megalithic culture. In this practice, the bones or cremated remains of the deceased were placed inside large earthen urns and buried beneath the ground.

Key Features of Nannangadi

  • 🏺 Large earthen urns were used for burial.
  • ⚱️ Human bones or cremated remains were placed inside the urns.
  • 🗡️ Iron implements, beads, pottery, and other grave goods are often found along with the remains.
  • 🏛️ It is one of the most significant archaeological evidences of Kerala's Megalithic civilisation.

In simple terms, Muniyara is a stone-built burial chamber (Dolmen), whereas Nannangadi is a burial system using large earthen urns.

Nannangadi

🌿 Archaeological Heritage of Kuthannur Grama Panchayat

The Muppuzha area of Kuthannur Grama Panchayat is one of the region's important archaeological sites. Excavations and surveys have revealed a remarkable collection of ancient remains, including:

  • 🪨 Muniyaras (Dolmens)
  • 🏺 Nannangadis (Urn Burials)
  • 🕳️ Ancient Wells
  • 🏞️ Natural Caves

These archaeological discoveries provide valuable evidence of the Megalithic civilisation that flourished in this region over two thousand years ago. They highlight the rich historical and cultural heritage of Kuthannur and make Muppuzha an important site for archaeological research and heritage conservation.

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