Stonehenge

The History of Stonehenge

The first stage of Stonehenge dates back to around 3100 BC, which makes it older than the Great Pyramid of Giza. The original structure consisted of a circular ditch and bank, inside which stood 56 pits known as Aubrey Holes. These holes are named after John Aubrey, who discovered them in the 17th century. The purpose of these holes is not clear, but some theories suggest that they held wooden posts or stones. The next stage of construction began around 2600 BC, when the site’s builders erected 80 bluestones, which were imported from Wales. These standing stones vary in height from 7 to 13 feet and weigh up to 4 tons each. They were arranged in two concentric circles, which were later rearranged into a horseshoe shape. The final phase of building took place around 2400 BC, when the builders added 30 huge stones known as Sarsens. These stones weigh up to 25 tons each and stand up to 30 feet high. They were aligned in a horseshoe shape, with five trilithons (two vertical stones with a horizontal capstone) in the center. The stones were fitted together with incredible precision using complex joints and mortise and tenon joints, which suggests that the builders had advanced knowledge of engineering and architecture.

Theories of Stonehenge

Despite years of research, scientists and archaeologists still cannot agree on the purpose of Stonehenge or the identity of its builders. Some of the most popular theories include:

– Observatory: Some people believe that Stonehenge was used as an astronomical observatory, where the builders could study the movements of the sun, moon, and stars.

– Healing center: Others think that Stonehenge was a place of healing, where people could come to be cured of illnesses.

– Religious site: Another theory is that Stonehenge was a center of religious activity, perhaps for sun worship, ancestor worship, or sacrifice.

– Cemetery: Some scientists believe that Stonehenge was a site of burial for the elite members of the community.

Mysteries of Stonehenge

Stonehenge remains full of mysteries that have yet to be solved. Some of the most intriguing questions include:

– How did the builders move such massive stones without the use of modern technology? Some theories suggest that they used rollers, pulleys, or even ice to transport the stones.

– How did the builders align the stones so precisely? The stones are aligned with the sunrise on the summer solstice and the sunset on the winter solstice, which suggests that the builders had some knowledge of astronomy.

– Why did the builders choose to import bluestones from a site over 100 miles away in Wales? This question remains one of the biggest mysteries of Stonehenge.

Conclusion

Stonehenge remains one of the world’s greatest mysteries, with researchers and tourists alike still trying to unlock its secrets. Despite years of research and excavation, we still have more questions than answers about this ancient monument. Whether it was an astronomical observatory, a healing center, a religious site, or a cemetery, Stonehenge remains a testament to the ingenuity, skill, and mystery of our ancient ancestors.