Hasil Investigasi Pemetaan dan Observasi Situs Arkeologi Instalasi Pengolahan Air Limbah (IPAL) di Kampung Jawa - Kampung Pande

Abstract

This study aims to identify, map, and describe the archaeological remains found around the Wastewater Treatment Plant (Instalasi Pengolahan Air Limbah/IPAL) site in Kampung Jawa–Kampung Pande, Banda Aceh, and to examine the position of the area within the context of the development of settlements and Acehnese culture in the past. The study employed a qualitative approach through archaeological observation, site mapping, identification of surface finds, and examination of historical sources related to the Kampung Jawa and Kampung Pande areas. The findings indicate that the area surrounding the IPAL constitutes part of an archaeological site associated with settlement networks and human activities during the Aceh Darussalam Sultanate. The main findings include groups of ancient graves marked by Acehnese-type gravestones (Batu Aceh), as well as various ceramic and earthenware artifacts. Based on their typological forms, motifs, and carving styles, the gravestones are estimated to date from approximately the eighteenth to the nineteenth century CE, particularly the early to mid-eighteenth century CE. Meanwhile, the ceramic finds indicate the existence of trade relations and interactions with East and Southeast Asia, as evidenced by Chinese porcelain as well as stoneware ceramics from Thailand and Burma. These findings demonstrate that the Kampung Jawa–Kampung Pande area formed part of a historical landscape that developed within the context of trade, settlement, and the socio-religious life of the Aceh Darussalam Sultanate. Although the concentration of archaeological remains around the IPAL site is relatively limited compared with the settlement areas of Kampung Jawa and Kampung Pande, their presence remains significant as part of a broader archaeological site system. Therefore, the area and its archaeological remains require appropriate attention, protection, and management as an integral part of Aceh's cultural heritage.