June 03, 2010: Recent excavations carried out in the vicinity of the sacred grounds of Pahiyangala have revealed swathes of earth considered to be the oldest habitat of South Asia's modern man.
According to the Department of Archaeology, these swathes of earth are considered to be over 40,000 years old.
The Pahiyangala Cave, situated 400 metres above sea level in the Kalutara district, is considered as unique for its archaeological significance.
Excavations had been carried out since 1968 in its vicinity, considered to be the largest natural cave in Sri Lanka.
During excavations in 2005, several items of archaeological significance, believed to be over 40,000 years old, have been discovered.
According to Dr. Nimal Perera, Deputy Commissioner General of the Department, these swathes of earth, discovered during excavations, are over 40,000 years old.
“We could deduce that these swathes of earth are over 40,000 years old. Tests on the earth are being carried out at the laboratory of the Stirling University in Scotland to determine how old they are.
“If our estimates could be verified scientifically, then we could consider the Pahiyangala area as being the oldest habitat of South Asia's modern man.” said Dr. Perera.
Excavations carried out between 1986 and 1987 have brought forth evidence that Pahiyangala has a history of over 38,000 years.
