The discoveries from the country’s first-ever scientific archaeological excavation conducted on the ruins of the Drapham Dzong in Bumthang were exhibited today. A news release from the Home Affairs Ministry stated that the artifacts including arrowheads, ceramics and pot sheds reveal the craftsmanship, lifestyles, and beliefs of Bhutanese ancestors. It further stated that this will allow future generations to experience and understand the importance of archaeological sites, fostering a sense of pride and ownership in Bhutanese heritage. One of the main objectives of the project is to study Dzongs built in the country before Zhabdrung’s arrival.
The Culture and Dzongkha Development Department carried out archaeological research from 2008 to 2010 in collaboration with the HELVETAS Swiss Intercooperation and the Swiss-Liechtenstein Foundation of Archaeological Research Abroad. The exhibition was conducted in collaboration with the Bumthang Dzongkhag administration, the local community and the Tourism Department.
