Banthadukka: The excavation at Manimoola, conducted by the Archaeology Department, reached its third day on Thursday.

On Wednesday, researchers uncovered secret, cellar-like chambers resembling caves. These cellars, which were found closed, were opened yesterday.The entrance of the cave, decorated with carvings and stonework, had been sealed with a single laterite slab placed over smaller granite stones to form a tight closure.

 Authorities are working to evaluate the historical and archaeological importance of the find by reviewing available archaeological records and literature and to identify any additional remnants lying beneath the surface. The excavation is being led by K Krishnaraj, Officer in Charge of the Pazhassiraja Archaeological Museum in Kozhikode.

The first archaeological traces at the site, which also included pottery were found on April 4 during roadside digging for a drinking water pipeline. Researchers remain hopeful that more artefacts will be unearthed from the underground cellar.