BLAHBATU

A sarcophagus containing what its local discoverers described as a human-headed dragon is the latest unearthed in relic-rich Gianyar. It was found by brick makers at Blahbatu last weekend.

Archaeologists are studying the sarcophagus in an attempt to date and reference it. It was found only 100 metres from where another ancient sarcophagus, this one with a turtle head design, was dug up some months ago.

The area is rich in relics of Bali’s ancient civilisation. The brickyard where the latest find was made has already produced three sarcophaguses believed to be 2,000 years old.

Initial archaeological assessments are that the latest find is similar in design as sarcophaguses unearthed at nearby Keramas.

Heavy rains are thought to have unearthed the latest find.