Exploring Ancient Residential Forms of the Oc Eo Culture in Southern Vietnam: Insights from Recent Archaeological Advancement

Abstract

This study aims to elucidate the characteristics of settlement patterns within the Oc Eo community by systematizing data from both ancient texts and archaeological findings, beginning in the early 20th century and focusing particularly on discoveries from the past decade. The findings suggest that, in the early phase of Oc Eo, stilt houses served as the primary residential form, alongside simple and relatively level clay embankments used as living platforms. These stilt houses exhibited diverse variations concerning size and architectural features. The research also explores evidence of foundation-building techniques for wooden architecture documented archaeologically for the first time in Oc Eo culture, along with the selection of locally available materials, highlighting the Oc Eo community’s adaptability in addressing environmental challenges, such as subsidence in alluvial and flood-prone areas and limited access to stone resources. Furthermore, the discovery of large wooden structures with intricate carvings suggests the existence of elite residential zones within significant Oc Eo settlements, reflecting a hierarchically structured society of Funan.departmental bulletin pape