Teri Excavations
Teri Excavations is a group of megalithic and Iron Age archaeological sites in Thoothukudi and Tirunelveli Districts, Tamil Nadu, India.
Overview
The Teri sites are a series of red sand dune deposits containing megalithic burials, iron artifacts, and early Tamil-Brahmi inscriptions dating from approximately 300 BCE to 300 CE. They are among the most important Iron Age sites in South India.
Historical Context
The Teri deposits were first studied by British geologists in the 19th century and systematically excavated by the Archaeological Survey of India in the 1960s-1970s under R. Nagaswamy and others. The excavations revealed a sequence of burials including urn burials, pit burials, and cist burials. The sites yielded iron implements, black-and-red ware pottery, and early Tamil-Brahmi inscriptions.
Features/Significance
The Teri sites provided the earliest evidence of iron-smelting technology in South India. The Tamil-Brahmi inscriptions found at the sites are among the oldest Tamil writing. The burial practices documented at Teri show connections with megalithic traditions across South India and Sri Lanka.
Modern Status
The Teri sites are protected by the Archaeological Survey of India and the Tamil Nadu State Archaeology Department. They remain active research sites for understanding the Iron Age transition in South India.
Verification Notes
- ASI site code: TN-TKV-2
- Iron Age deposits dating 300 BCE-300 CE
- Yielded Tamil-Brahmi inscriptions and iron artifacts