Manunggul Jar

The Manunggul Jar is a significant archaeological treasure from a Neolithic burial site in the Manunggul Cave, part of the Tabon Caves in Palawan, Philippines. Dating back to 890–710 B.C., this secondary burial jar is adorned with two striking figures on its lid, symbolizing the soul's journey to the afterlife. It is regarded as one of the finest examples of pre-colonial Filipino art, crafted from clay and sand. Today, it is proudly displayed at the National Museum of Anthropology in Manila, where it is designated as a national treasure.

In 1962, Dr. Robert B. Fox and Miguel Antonio uncovered the Manunggul Jar in Chamber A of the Manunggul Cave, alongside the remains of the Tabon Man. The Tabon Caves are renowned for their jar burials, which date from 2300 to 50 B.C. Inside the jar, they found human bones covered in red ochre, along with bracelets, reminiscent of Egyptian burial traditions.

The Manunggul Jar's intricate design highlights the rich maritime culture and spiritual beliefs of early Filipinos. The figures on the lid represent a voyage to the afterlife, embodying the artistry and religious heritage of the Austronesian people. The lid is painted with hematite, symbolizing the belief in life after death.

Jar burial, a form of secondary burial, involves reburying only the bones of the deceased, not the entire body. The Manunggul Jar serves as a cultural bridge between the archaeological past and the ethnographic present, offering valuable insights into ancient Filipino practices and beliefs surrounding death and the afterlife.