Stonehenge, a prehistoric monument located in Wiltshire, England, continues to fascinate and mystify. This iconic stone circle, a UNESCO World Heritage site, has been the subject of intense speculation and archaeological investigation for centuries. But what exactly is Stonehenge, and why is it so significant?
A Timeline of Construction: Building Stonehenge Through the Ages
The construction of Stonehenge occurred in several distinct phases, spanning from the late Neolithic period to the Bronze Age. Understanding this timeline is crucial to grasping the monument’s evolving purpose and significance.
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Early Stages (8000-7000 BCE): Even before the stones were erected, the area held importance. Mesolithic hunter-gatherers dug pits and erected pine posts near the future site, suggesting a ritual or territorial significance. These early activities highlight the enduring importance of this location long before the iconic stone structure appeared.
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Phase 1 (around 3000 BCE): The initial construction involved digging a circular ditch and bank, known as a henge. Within this enclosure, a circle of wooden posts or standing stones may have been erected. This early phase marks the formal demarcation of the site as a place of special significance.
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Phase 2 (around 2500 BCE): The bluestones, smaller stones transported from the Preseli Hills in Wales (over 150 miles away), were brought to the site. The transportation of these stones was an incredible feat of engineering and organization. These were arranged in a double arc inside the henge. The purpose of this arrangement is still debated among archaeologists, but theories range from a stone circle or ellipse to a horseshoe shape.
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Phase 3 (around 2500-1600 BCE): The massive sarsen stones, sourced locally, were erected. These stones, much larger than the bluestones, were carefully shaped and arranged in an outer circle with a continuous lintel and an inner horseshoe shape. This phase represents the most recognizable form of Stonehenge.
What Materials Make Up Stonehenge? Sarsen Stones and Bluestones
Stonehenge is primarily constructed from two types of stone: sarsen stones and bluestones.
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Sarsen Stones: These are large, silicified sandstone blocks found on Salisbury Plain. The sarsen stones form the outer circle and the central trilithons (two vertical stones supporting a horizontal lintel). Their size and weight (up to 50 tons) required immense effort to quarry, transport, and erect.
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Bluestones: These smaller stones are a variety of igneous rocks, including dolerite and rhyolite, originating from the Preseli Hills in Wales. The bluestones were likely transported to Stonehenge by a combination of land and water routes.
Unraveling the Purpose: What Was Stonehenge Used For?
The original purpose of Stonehenge remains a mystery, but several theories have been proposed:
- Religious Site: The alignment of Stonehenge with the solstices suggests a connection to solar worship or astronomical observation. The monument may have been a place for ceremonies and rituals related to the cycles of the sun and moon.
- Burial Ground: Archaeological evidence suggests that Stonehenge was used as a burial site, with numerous burials discovered in and around the monument. This suggests a link to ancestor worship or a memorial to the dead.
- Meeting Place: Some archaeologists believe that Stonehenge was a meeting place for different groups or tribes. The monument may have served as a neutral ground for trade, negotiations, or social gatherings.
- Healing Center: Based on the discovery of individuals with injuries buried near Stonehenge, some believe it was a place of pilgrimage for those seeking healing or spiritual renewal.
Debunking Myths: Stonehenge and the Druids
A common misconception is that Stonehenge was built by the Druids. However, Stonehenge predates the Druids by thousands of years. While modern-day Druids do gather at Stonehenge for ceremonial purposes, there is no evidence to suggest that the ancient Druids were involved in its construction or original use.
Ongoing Research: Unveiling New Secrets
Archaeological investigations continue to shed new light on Stonehenge. Recent discoveries and advancements in dating techniques are refining our understanding of the monument’s construction, purpose, and its place within the broader prehistoric landscape. The Stonehenge Riverside Project, for example, has revealed important insights into the relationship between Stonehenge and other nearby monuments, such as Durrington Walls.
Stonehenge Today: A Legacy of Mystery
Stonehenge stands as a testament to the ingenuity and cultural complexity of prehistoric societies. While its exact purpose may never be fully known, Stonehenge continues to inspire awe and wonder, drawing visitors from around the world. It serves as a reminder of our connection to the past and the enduring power of human creativity and spirituality.
