Stonehenge

Introduction

Stonehenge, an iconic prehistoric monument located on the Salisbury Plain in Wiltshire, England, has captured the imagination and curiosity of scholars, archaeologists, and the general public for centuries. This mysterious structure, composed of massive standing stones arranged in a circular pattern, has sparked numerous theories regarding its origin, purpose, and the methods employed in its construction. Let us delve into the history of Stonehenge, exploring its evolution over time and examining the various theories surrounding its possible uses..

Historical Overview

Stonehenge’s history dates back over 4,000 years, with its construction spanning several phases. The monument evolved from a simple earthwork enclosure to the awe-inspiring stone circle we recognise today. The earliest phase, known as the “Henge” phase, occurred around 3100 BCE when a circular ditch and an outer bank were dug with antler tools, creating a roughly 110-meter diameter space.

It is believed that ,around 3000 BCE, the first stones were introduced, consisting of bluestones transported from the Preseli Hills in southwest Wales (Craig Rhos-y-felin and Carn Goedog), roughly 140 miles away. But there is new research raising the question about whether these stones were specifically quarried for Stonehenge or taken from a similar, earlier site in Wales called Waun Mawn. This earlier site used the very same bluestones – again set out 110 metres across – but was then dismantled hundreds of years after its construction to be then used at Stonehenge. These smaller stones were arranged at Stonehenge in a double circle within the existing earthworks. However, the construction methods used to transport and erect these stones have been the subject of much debate among scholars and researchers, with theories ranging from sledges and rollers to water-based transportation.

The next significant phase, often referred to as the “Bluestone” phase, saw the reconfiguration of the monument. The bluestones were rearranged, and larger sarsen stones, weighing up to 50 tons each, were added to create the iconic trilithons – two vertical stones capped by a horizontal lintel. This phase is estimated to have taken place between 2600 BCE and 2400 BCE. The sarsen stones, believed to have been sourced from the Marlborough Downs, were transported over 20 miles to the site.

The final stage of construction occurred around 2300 BCE, during which the outer circle of massive sarsen stones and the central horseshoe-shaped trilithons were completed. The stones were meticulously shaped, fitted together using sophisticated joints, and raised to create the striking architectural marvel we all know and love.

Purpose and Function

The purpose of Stonehenge has been a longstanding mystery, and numerous theories have been proposed over the years. One prevailing theory is that Stonehenge served as an astronomical observatory or calendar. The alignment of the stones with celestial events, such as the summer and winter solstices, suggests a deliberate effort to track the movements of the sun and moon. The avenue leading away from Stonehenge aligns with the summer solstice sunrise, suggesting a possible ceremonial or ritualistic function during key celestial events.

Another theory suggests that Stonehenge functioned as a sacred burial site. Archaeological excavations in the surrounding area have revealed numerous burial mounds known as barrows, containing human remains and artifacts. Some believe that Stonehenge served as a ceremonial centre for funerary rituals and commemorations, possibly for a ruling elite or a revered religious figure.

The religious and spiritual significance of Stonehenge is evident in its design and placement within the landscape. The circular shape, aligned with the natural features of the surrounding terrain, and its placing in proximity to other similar sites may have symbolised the cyclical nature of life, death, and rebirth in ancient belief systems. This cyclic nature could have been shared across multiple sites, with each neighbouring site representing one of the cycles. The use of bluestones from distant quarries could have carried symbolic importance, linking the monument to specific mythologies, spiritual traditions or even the coming together of regions (it seems bluestone was not local to the site area).

Furthermore, Stonehenge’s acoustic properties have led to speculation about its potential use for communal gatherings, ceremonies, or rituals. The careful arrangement of stones may have created an environment conducive to amplifying sound within the stone circle itself and naturally obscuring those outside; enhancing the experience of those participating in various activities within the monument. Like churches, mosques and synagogues acoustic properties are an important factor in any religious sermon or ritual; both in the delivery of the spoken word and also that of chanting or singing.

Whether any, or even all, of the above are to be considered possible uses of an area or even the entire site, the history of its function and significance could have been evolving over time as cultures and religious beliefs changed. There is even the possibility of the henge we know today being the finale – that henges mark the closure of the active phase in the life of a monument.

Controversies and Debates

Despite decades of research, Stonehenge remains a subject of controversy and debate among scholars. The lack of written records from the time of its construction adds to the mystery, leaving researchers to rely on archaeological evidence, comparative studies, and speculative interpretations.

One enduring debate revolves around the purpose of the bluestones and the logistics of their transportation. The distance between the Preseli Hills and Stonehenge, coupled with the size and weight of the stones, has led to various hypotheses about the methods employed for their transportation. Some propose the use of sledges and wooden rollers over land, while others suggest a more innovative approach involving water transport, such as rafts or boats. There are also suggestions that the stones were moved to the localised area by glaciers. The intricacies of moving these massive stones across significant distances without modern tools or machinery remain a point of contention. In fact, one question that might be asked is why were the bluestones moved such a distance: what was their importance? Due to the presence of bluestone – and the fact tremendous effort was used in obtaining and transporting it – has led some to believe the site could have been used as a healing centre: the presence of bluestones is believed by some to possess mystical or therapeutic properties. So, there is the significance as a possible place of pilgrimage, healing, and spiritual renewal.

The cultural significance of Stonehenge is another area of contention. While some researchers emphasise its likely use for religious or spiritual ceremonies, others argue that the monument could have served more practical purposes, such as a social, political or trading hub. The multiplicity of potential functions adds complexity to the interpretation of Stonehenge’s role in ancient society. Indeed, there is the chance it has had various uses and significance throughout its long history.

Recent Discoveries and Advancements

Advancements in archaeological techniques and technology have contributed to a deeper understanding of Stonehenge in recent years. Ground-penetrating radar and 3D laser scanning have allowed researchers to uncover hidden features beneath the surface and gain insight into the monument’s layout and associated structures.

In 2014, the Stonehenge Hidden Landscape Project revealed the presence of a massive stone monument lying just two miles from Stonehenge. Dubbed “Superhenge” by the media, this discovery included a circle of at least 30 standing stones, each around 15 feet in height. The proximity of this newly identified monument to Stonehenge suggests a complex of interconnected structures, potentially forming an extended ceremonial landscape.

DNA analysis of human remains found in the vicinity has also shed light on the individuals associated with Stonehenge. While some remains are believed to be of local origin, others exhibit isotopic signatures consistent with individuals who spent their childhood in the Preseli Hills, further supporting the theory of long-distance travel and migration for both the stones and the people involved in the monument’s construction.

Conclusion

Stonehenge continues to captivate the human imagination as an enigmatic relic of ancient civilisation. Its intricate design, colossal stones, and strategic alignment with celestial events evoke a sense of awe and curiosity. The monument’s history, spanning millennia, reveals a complex evolution from a simple earthwork enclosure to an iconic stone circle. Despite decades of study, the purpose of Stonehenge remains elusive, giving rise to numerous theories ranging from an astronomical observatory to a sacred burial site.

The controversies surrounding Stonehenge, including debates over the transportation of the bluestones and the cultural significance of the monument, underscore the challenges of interpreting the past without the aid of written records. Recent discoveries, such as Superhenge and DNA analysis of human remains, have added new layers to our understanding of Stonehenge’s complexity and its place within a broader ceremonial landscape. But it seems the architects of Stonehenge seemingly had knowledge and understanding of things we are attempting to understand today.

As researchers continue to explore and analyse this ancient marvel, UNESCO World Heritage Site Stonehenge stands as a testament to the ingenuity and spiritual beliefs of the people who conceived and constructed it. The enduring mysteries of Stonehenge invite further investigation and contemplation, ensuring that this iconic monument will continue to be a source of fascination for generations to come.