10 Archaeological Finds That Were Buried Again
In archaeology, reburial is not failure but a deliberate conservation strategy. Across the globe, important sites have been re-covered to guard against erosion, exposure, or looting.
- Daisy Montero
- 4 min read
This listicle looks at 10 places, from ancient trackways to Neolithic temples, where archaeologists chose to bury the sites again instead of showing them. Each example explains why they were reburied, how the process was done, and why the sites are worth preserving for the future.
1. 1. Ness of Brodgar
genevieveromier profile on Wikimedia Commons
The Ness of Brodgar is a Neolithic site in Orkney, Scotland, with massive stone walls and ceremonial buildings. After the important excavations, archaeologists reburied parts of the site to protect the delicate structures from harsh weather. Covering the walls with soil creates a stable environment that slows decay. This allows future researchers to study the site when improved conservation methods are available.
2. 2. Laetoli Footprints
Fidelis T Masao and colleagues on Wikimedia Commons
The Laetoli footprints in Tanzania show early human ancestors walking across volcanic ash millions of years ago. After excavation, the footprints were reburied to protect them from erosion, roots, and weather. Layers of soil and protective materials were used to create a stable preservation environment. This allows scientists to monitor and study the prints without risking damage to the fragile surface.
3. 3. Orpheus Mosaic, Paphos
Habib M’henni on Wikimedia Commons
The Orpheus mosaic in Cyprus was once displayed under a protective shelter. Over time, the shelter became inadequate to shield it from the elements. Archaeologists decided to reburial the mosaic to prevent damage and preserve the detailed artwork. The plan is to rebuild a better protective structure in the future while keeping the mosaic safe in the meantime.
4. 4. Gaya Tumuli
Timothyvail on Wikimedia Commons
The Gaya Tumuli in South Korea are ancient burial mounds that hold important cultural heritage. After excavation, the mounds were reconstructed using the original soil and stones. They were then re-covered with grass to protect the internal remains. This method preserves the memory of the burial sites and prevents erosion and plant damage.
5. 5. Jomon Prehistoric Sites
Abasaa on Wikimedia Commons
Japan’s Jomon heritage sites include pit houses and other fragile features. Archaeologists re-covered these remains with thick layers of soil and protective screens. This prevents root intrusion and stabilizes the soil around delicate artifacts. The reburial ensures that these sites are preserved in their original location for future study.
6. 6. Great House at Chaco Canyon
James Q. Jacobs on Wikimedia Commons
Chaco Canyon in New Mexico contains large masonry structures built by ancestral Puebloans. Archaeologists partially reburied some buildings to protect them from wind, rain, and sun damage. The reburial balances preservation with respect for the descendant communities. Covering these structures allows them to remain intact while waiting for future conservation projects.
7. 7. Laetoli Trackway Conservation
Rept0n1x on Wikimedia Commons
The Laetoli trackway shows footprints of early hominids in volcanic ash. Archaeologists designed layers of soil to protect the prints from moisture and erosion. Protective geotextiles prevent roots and water from disturbing the fragile tracks. This careful reburial ensures that the footprints survive for decades of scientific study.
8. 8. Skara Brae
Stephen McKay on Wikimedia Commons
Skara Brae in Orkney, Scotland, is a Neolithic village preserved by reburial. After exposure to the elements, archaeologists re-covered the stone walls with soil to slow decay. The soil protects the site from wind, rain, and plant growth. This method allows visitors to see the village safely in the future while keeping fragile structures intact.
9. 9. Grim’s Ditch
David Hawgood on Wikimedia Commons
Grim’s Ditch is an Iron Age boundary ditch located at Hunt’s Green Farm in Buckinghamshire. Archaeologists documented the ditch before reburial under a large earthen embankment linked to a modern rail project. The embankment was designed not only to preserve the ditch but also to limit water infiltration, plant growth, and erosion. The decision reflects a long-term commitment to preserving important archaeological remains in their original place.
10. 10. Koh Ker (Cambodia)
PsamatheM on Wikimedia Commons
Koh Ker was once the capital of the Khmer Empire and includes dozens of temples and hydraulic structures. Rather than fully restoring every ruin, managers have focused on protecting parts of the site by limiting large-scale excavation in sensitive areas. This careful in‑situ preservation balances protection with ongoing research and respect for the site’s integrity.