Identification of the Megalithic Tradition Based on its Region and the Human Activity in Banyuwangi

Abstract

This study aimed to identify the megalithic tradition in Banyuwangi which is still presents until this day to preserve the heritage of the megalithic tradition in Banyuwangi. Some relics of the megalithic tradition in Banyuwangi are damaged due to the act of looting and land conversion. This study of megalithic archeology research in Banyuwangi applied historical research procedures and literature study approach. Field observation applied in order to prove the authenticity and the credibility of the literature, and the discussions with the leaders of the region, researchers and the residents was done in order to find out their conservation efforts. The results showed that many relics of the megalithic traditions were found in Banyuwangi, namely residential caves, dolmen, menhirs, megalithic statues, manic beads and daily food producing tools of Neolithic society. The state of the heritage such as the caves are still as original as before, even some of them are remained untouched by the researcher. Meanwhile, the relics that are in the form of dolmen, menhirs and megalithic statues were damaged due to the act of looting and land conversion. The results of this study can be used as a supporting source containing the information in regards of the existence of the megalithic tradition's heritage in Banyuwangi, as well as the data for the Banyuwangi government to maintain its sustainability.