Discovering the Mysterious Origins of Stonehenge

Stonehenge is one of the most famous and enigmatic prehistoric sites in the world. Located in Wiltshire, England, it consists of a ring of standing stones, each weighing several tonnes. Despite decades of research and numerous excavations, the origins and purpose of Stonehenge remain shrouded in mystery. In this article, we will take a journey through time and explore the mysterious origins of Stonehenge.

The Early Years of Stonehenge

Stonehenge was built in several phases, with the earliest construction dating back over 5,000 years to the Neolithic period. The first construction phase involved digging a circular ditch and bank, known as a henge, which enclosed the area where the stones were later erected.

The stones themselves came from two different types of rock: the smaller Bluestones, which came from the Preseli Hills in Wales, and the larger sarsen stones, which came from Marlborough Downs, about 20 miles away. The Bluestones are thought to have been brought to the site via waterways, while the sarsen stones were likely transported over land using sledges and rollers.

The importance of the Bluestones is still a subject of debate among researchers. Some believe that they were believed to have healing powers, while others think they may have been associated with the ancestors of the people who built Stonehenge.

The second construction phase involved the addition of more Bluestones and the rearrangement of the original stones. This phase ended around 2600 BCE.

The Middle Years of Stonehenge

The third construction phase began around 2600 BCE and saw the addition of the sarsen stones, which were placed in an outer circle with lintels placed on top. The Heel Stone, which stands outside the circle, was also erected during this phase. The Avenue, a processional route leading to the site, was also constructed at this time.

The fourth construction phase saw further rearrangement of the stones, with some being moved to form the inner horseshoe shape that we see today. This phase ended around 2400 BCE.

The Later Years of Stonehenge

The fifth and final construction phase began around 2300 BCE and involved the addition of more stones and the rearrangement of the existing ones. The Y and Z holes were dug during this phase, and it is thought that they may have had an astronomical significance.

The stones were rearranged several times during this phase, with some being removed and others added. The last phase of activity at Stonehenge is thought to have taken place around 1600 BCE, after which Stonehenge was left to stand in its current form.

Theories Surrounding Stonehenge

Despite decades of research and numerous excavations, the origins and purpose of Stonehenge remain a mystery, leading to a range of theories regarding its significance.

The religious theory suggests that Stonehenge was used as a place of worship and sacrifice, with the Bluestones being associated with healing rituals.

The astronomical theory proposes that Stonehenge was used to observe the movement of the stars and planets and may have been an early astronomical observatory.

The healing theory suggests that Stonehenge was a place of healing and that the Bluestones were believed to have healing powers.

The political theory suggests that Stonehenge was used as a gathering place for political and social events.

Finally, the burial theory proposes that Stonehenge was used as a burial site for important members of the community.

Conclusion

Stonehenge is a remarkable prehistoric monument that continues to fascinate and perplex researchers and visitors alike. Despite decades of research and numerous excavations, the origins and purpose of Stonehenge remain shrouded in mystery. It is clear, however, that Stonehenge was an important site for prehistoric societies, and its significance cannot be underestimated.

Continued research and excavation at the site will undoubtedly shed further light on its origins and purpose, and it is essential that this work continues to ensure that we can better understand our prehistoric past.

FAQs

Who built Stonehenge?

Stonehenge was built by prehistoric societies, although the exact builders are unknown.

When was Stonehenge built?

The first construction phase of Stonehenge began over 5,000 years ago, with the final phase of activity ending around 1600 BCE.

What was the purpose of Stonehenge?

The purpose of Stonehenge is still unknown, although there are many theories regarding its significance, including religious, astronomical, and political purposes.

How were the stones transported to the site?

The Bluestones were likely transported via waterways, while the larger sarsen stones were likely transported over land using sledges and rollers.

Can visitors still see Stonehenge today?

Yes, Stonehenge is open to visitors and is a popular tourist attraction. However, visitors are not allowed to touch or enter the stones themselves.