Stonehenge, a prehistoric marvel, has stood the test of time, captivating imaginations with its mysterious origins and purpose. Erected over 5,000 years ago in Wiltshire, England, this monumental stone circle continues to puzzle historians and archaeologists alike. Despite its fame, the true intent behind the construction of Stonehenge, as well as the herculean effort required to transport its massive stones, remains one of the world's most enduring enigmas.
In the Neolithic period, around 3000 BCE, a series of circular pits known as the Aubrey Holes were excavated near Amesbury, Wiltshire. Each hole measured approximately one meter in depth and width, forming a circle with a diameter of 284 feet. While human remains have been discovered at the site, it is widely believed that these holes were initially dug for religious ceremonies. However, shortly after their creation, the site was abandoned and lay dormant for a millennium.
A millennium later, a new phase of construction began, which involved the transportation of 82 bluestones, each weighing up to 4 tons, from the Preseli Mountains in Wales to the Stonehenge site—a staggering 240 miles away. Without modern machinery, this feat is considered one of prehistoric engineering's greatest mysteries. It is theorized that the stones were moved along the South Wales coast on rollers, then loaded onto rafts and sailed up the Avon and Frome rivers. The journey continued overland to Warminster, followed by another river transport on the Wylye to Salisbury, and finally dragged to their current location. The sheer scale of this operation is difficult to comprehend, especially considering the number of stones and the lack of any mishaps during the transport.
Once the stones reached their destination, they were meticulously arranged into an incomplete double circle. The site's layout includes an 'Avenue' that aligns with the midsummer sunrise and a pair of 'Heel Stones.' Some stones were fashioned into lintels, which still baffle observers as to how they were lifted and placed atop the standing stones.
The purpose of Stonehenge has been the subject of much speculation. While many believe it served as a place of worship, others propose it functioned as a giant calendar. The absence of a written language from the culture that built Stonehenge leaves us with no definitive answers. Some far-fetched theories suggest extraterrestrial or time-traveling influences, but these are generally dismissed by the academic community.
A more plausible theory by Mike Parker Pearson, leader of the Stonehenge Riverside Project, posits that Stonehenge was part of a larger complex connected to Durrington Walls, representing a journey from life to death. Geoffrey Wainwright and Timothy Darvill, of the Society of Antiquaries of London, suggest Stonehenge was a place of healing.
Ownership of Stonehenge has changed hands multiple times throughout history. Notably, Henry VIII granted the site to the Earl of Hertford in 1540. It later passed to the Marquis of Queensbury and, in 1824, was purchased by the Antrobus family. After the last heir died in World War I, Cecil Chubb bought Stonehenge for £6,600 and later donated it to the nation.
In 1920, a national appeal was launched to save Stonehenge from encroaching modern development. By 1928, the surrounding land was entrusted to the National Trust to preserve the site's integrity. Stonehenge was voted one of the Seven Wonders of Britain in 2002.
Stonehenge remains a testament to the ingenuity and determination of our ancestors. Its true purpose may never be fully understood, but it continues to be a source of fascination and inspiration for people around the world. As research continues, each discovery adds a piece to the puzzle of this ancient wonder.
For more detailed information on Stonehenge and its history, visit the English Heritage website or explore the National Trust's resources.
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