Ancient treasure trove found in Laos

Artefacts that shed light on a period some 2,500 years ago have been unearthed when people were searching for unexploded ordnance remaining from past wars at a mine site in southern Laos, media reported Thursday.

A bronze drum dating back to the Dong Son era which is now on display in Vientiane at the National Museum is considered the most significant find of the treasure trove, Xinhua reported citing state-run Vientiane Times.

Crucibles, copper ingots, jewellery, and ceremonial items are also among the relics found at the Peun Baolo site of the MMG LXML Sepon mine.

According to a statement from MMG LXML Sepon, excavations have uncovered a rich cultural history that included evidence of ancient copper mining shafts and copper ingots traded across Southeast Asia in those times.