Prehistoric Remains Unearthed During Southern Taiwan Science Park Chi Mei Hospital Construction, Initially Identified as Dahhu Culture

Tainan, April 16 (CNA) - Prehistoric cultural remains were unearthed during the construction of the Chi Mei Hospital in the Southern Taiwan Science Park in March 2024, initially identified by an archaeological team as artifacts from the Dahhu Culture (3300-1800 years ago). Construction has been halted and reported to the authorities in accordance with the Cultural Heritage Preservation Law, and emergency excavation measures have been implemented. The Tainan City Cultural Heritage Management Office stated today that construction of the Southern Taiwan Science Park Chi Mei Hospital began on March 21, 2025 (114th year). While excavating the basement on March 25, 2024 (this year), prehistoric cultural remains and ash pits were discovered. Construction was halted as per the Cultural Heritage Preservation Law, and the relevant authorities were notified on March 27. A site inspection was conducted on April 14 to discuss follow-up mechanisms. The Cultural Heritage Office stated that the exposed prehistoric cultural layer is approximately 3 meters thick and extends into unexcavated areas, possessing considerable research value. However, considering the site's retaining support conditions and the approaching rainy season, which could affect public safety, a decision was made to implement emergency excavation measures to ensure both cultural heritage preservation and engineering safety. The Cultural Heritage Office told CNA that the archaeological team preliminarily determined that these prehistoric cultural remains belong to the Dahhu Culture, similar in age to the suspected Shitoupubei site located approximately 40 meters away. The Shitoupubei site's burials and related remains were excavated during the development of the Southern Taiwan Science Park. The Cultural Heritage Office stated that these prehistoric cultural remains are primarily concentrated in a localized construction area. Once the emergency excavation is completed, construction can resume, allowing the overall project to proceed according to the original development plan, with limited impact on the progress of the Southern Taiwan Science Park's medical construction. (Editor: Chang Ya-ching) 1150416