Thornborough Henges
Thornborough Henges, a remarkable Neolithic complex located near Ripon in North Yorkshire, UK, often dubbed as the “Stonehenge of the North,” has undergone a significant transformation. Now, it welcomes visitors under public ownership, marking a pivotal moment in its historical journey.
Dating back to 3500 to 2500 BC, this site boasts three imposing earth circles, standing at 4 meters high and stretching 200 meters across each. Archaeologists speculate that these earthworks served as focal points for ceremonial gatherings and trading activities among early Britons.
In a generous gesture, two of the three henges have been gifted to the public entity Historic England by Tarmac, a construction company. These henges are now entrusted to the stewardship of the charitable organisation English Heritage, offering free access to the public. Additionally, Lightwater Holdings, a local firm, has contributed sections of the broader monument, further enriching the site’s accessibility.
Thornborough Henges – Southern
Duncan Wilson from Historic England remarked, these henges are “a link to our ancient ancestors, through thousands of years, inspiring a sense of wonder and mystery.” He expressed delight in securing this invaluable site for the nation, ensuring its preservation for posterity.
This transfer of ownership marks a pivotal moment, as the henges will now be safeguarded from previous risks highlighted by Historic England since 2009. Concerns regarding erosion due to livestock and rabbits prompted their inclusion on the risk register, a concern now alleviated through this transition.
While today, the henges manifest as prominent circular banks, in antiquity, they likely towered over wetlands, potentially adorned with a sulphate mineral, gypsum, rendering them as striking white landmarks visible from afar.
Kate Mavor of English Heritage emphasized the significance of this moment, stating, “Thornborough Henges is one of the most important ancient sites in Britain and yet almost completely unknown. We are looking forward to sharing its significance, its stories and its secrets with the public.”
The opening of Thornborough Henges to visitors marks a pivotal opportunity to disseminate its rich history to new audiences, ensuring its legacy endures for generations to come.
X-Heritage (X Heritage)
Geolocation: 54.20895851297832, -1.562705104297817
Photo Credits: English Heritage
Thornborough Henges
Thornborough Henges, a remarkable Neolithic complex located near Ripon in North Yorkshire, UK, often dubbed as the “Stonehenge of the North,” has undergone a significant transformation. Now, it welcomes visitors under public ownership, marking a pivotal moment in its historical journey.
Dating back to 3500 to 2500 BC, this site boasts three imposing earth circles, standing at 4 meters high and stretching 200 meters across each. Archaeologists speculate that these earthworks served as focal points for ceremonial gatherings and trading activities among early Britons.
In a generous gesture, two of the three henges have been gifted to the public entity Historic England by Tarmac, a construction company. These henges are now entrusted to the stewardship of the charitable organisation English Heritage, offering free access to the public. Additionally, Lightwater Holdings, a local firm, has contributed sections of the broader monument, further enriching the site’s accessibility.
Thornborough Henges – Southern
Duncan Wilson from Historic England remarked, these henges are “a link to our ancient ancestors, through thousands of years, inspiring a sense of wonder and mystery.” He expressed delight in securing this invaluable site for the nation, ensuring its preservation for posterity.
This transfer of ownership marks a pivotal moment, as the henges will now be safeguarded from previous risks highlighted by Historic England since 2009. Concerns regarding erosion due to livestock and rabbits prompted their inclusion on the risk register, a concern now alleviated through this transition.
While today, the henges manifest as prominent circular banks, in antiquity, they likely towered over wetlands, potentially adorned with a sulphate mineral, gypsum, rendering them as striking white landmarks visible from afar.
Kate Mavor of English Heritage emphasized the significance of this moment, stating, “Thornborough Henges is one of the most important ancient sites in Britain and yet almost completely unknown. We are looking forward to sharing its significance, its stories and its secrets with the public.”
The opening of Thornborough Henges to visitors marks a pivotal opportunity to disseminate its rich history to new audiences, ensuring its legacy endures for generations to come.
X-Heritage (X Heritage)
Geolocation: 54.20895851297832, -1.562705104297817
Photo Credits: English Heritage