Megalithic culture at the Suco Lor site Bondowoso

Abstract

This research examines the megalithic culture at the Suco Lor Site, Bondowoso. The research objectives were: (i) to make an inventory of the number of archaeological remains of megalithic culture in the Suco Lor Site; (ii) analyzing the distribution, types, and functions of the archaeological remains of megalithic culture; (iii) reconstructing a picture of the religious, social and economic life of the supporting megalithic community. The research design used a historical research design with a cultural archeology approach. Primary data were collected using field survey techniques; Secondary data were collected using interview techniques and documentary techniques. The interpretation of the data was carried out hermeneutically using form analysis techniques, context analysis, comparisons, and ethnoarcheological analogies. The results of the study are as follows. First, the number of megalithic cultural archaeological remains at the Suco Lor Site is 241 with a typology consisting of 11 types. Second, there are two kinds of distribution patterns (group close together and single distribution). Third, the megalithic community in the Suco Lor Site has recognized religion which is oriented towards the cult of ancestors. Their social life has recognized the pattern of permanent housing in complex social life arrangements, which are also egalitarian in character. They are familiar with and master various technologies (pottery making, stone mining, and carving) and are thought to have been able to utilize metal technology. The subsistence pattern relies on agriculture as the main subsistence, as well as mixing food, trade and (presumably) livestock as supporting subsistence.