A fallen tree in the Amazon city of Fonte Boa has uncovered a burial site with seven ceramic urns containing human bones, believed to date back thousands of years. The urns, bones, and Amazon setting offer rare insight into early life and burial traditions in the region, pointing to complex and long-standing Indigenous practices.
The burial site was discovered beneath a large tree that had toppled during a recent storm. Archaeologists state that the urns were buried on an artificial island—an elevated mound constructed from layers of soil and ceramic shards. These platforms, raised above flood levels, were likely used to support homes during the region’s wet season.
Researchers from the Mamirauá Institute, working in partnership with the São Lázaro do Arumandubinha community, led the excavation. Human remains were discovered inside the urns, along with fish and turtle bones, suggesting that the burials were tied to food offerings or ceremonial customs.
The urns were found about 40 centimeters (15.748 inches or 1.31 feet) below the surface and showed no signs of ceramic lids. Experts believe they may have been sealed with organic materials that have since decayed.
Unusual materials hint at an unknown cultural tradition
The artifacts are made of greenish clay and feature red painted stripes—characteristics not commonly seen in other known ceramics from the region. Initial analysis indicates that this may represent a previously undocumented cultural tradition.
Archaeologist Márcio Amaral described the artificial island as an example of “sophisticated Indigenous engineering.”
He explained that these structures were intentionally raised in the floodplain’s higher areas using a mix of soil and pottery fragments, designed to withstand seasonal water rise and support long-term settlements.
The discovery came to light when resident Walfredo Cerqueira saw photos of the urns exposed by the fallen tree. He contacted a local priest, who then alerted Amaral. Subsequently, the archaeological team began planning their visit.
Local knowledge led to a key discovery and recovery
Excavating the site required an elevated wooden platform suspended over three meters above the ground, built by community members using vines and logs.
Transporting the fragile urns to Tefé was a meticulous process. Each piece was wrapped in plastic film, then secured with plaster bandages, bubble wrap, and wooden frames tied with ropes.
“I don’t say intact by luck, but by method,” said researcher Geórgea Layla Holanda. “We used plastic film, then plaster bandage to stabilize, then bubble wrap and, finally, wooden support with ropes.”
Researchers believe the find challenges long-held ideas about the Amazon floodplains. Rather than serving merely as transit zones, these areas supported permanent settlements adapted to their environment.
“This was archaeology from the inside out,” said Amaral. “We participated in the management of the pirarucu, we camped together, we followed their rhythm.”