10 Interesting Facts about Stonehenge, Its Ancient History and Full of Mystery

Interesting Facts about Stonehenge, Its Ancient History and Full of Mystery

Explore fascinating facts about Stonehenge, a megalithic site that holds many mysteries, from ancient history to amazing construction.

Stonehenge, one of the world’s most famous archaeological sites, is located in Wiltshire, England, and has been the subject of study, awe and speculation for thousands of years.

With its massive stone formations forming a majestic circle, the site has attracted tourists, scientists and archaeologists from all over the world.

Although many admire its beauty, many questions remain unanswered regarding its origins and purpose. Here are 10 interesting facts about Stonehenge that many people may not know, providing deeper insight into this mysterious site.

What is Stonehenge?

Stonehenge is a prehistoric monument consisting of a circle of large stones. Two types of stones were used in the construction of Stonehenge: large stones known as “sarsens” and smaller stones called “bluestones.”

Built approximately 4,500 years ago, Stonehenge still holds many mysteries about its purpose and construction process.

Although there is no clear consensus on who built it, the site was recognized as a world heritage site by UNESCO in 1986 due to its importance in human history and culture.

1. Stonehenge is almost 5,000 years old

As one of the oldest man-made structures in the world, Stonehenge is almost 5,000 years old. Its construction is estimated to have begun around 3000 BC and was completed around 1500 BC. The site is older than the famous Pyramids of Giza in Egypt.

Its long-standing existence provides evidence of the advances in construction techniques achieved by prehistoric peoples of that era. Among the Things to do English, exploring the history and significance of Stonehenge reveals its continued importance in human culture.

2. Construction Project That Took 1,500 Years

The construction of Stonehenge was not completed in a short time. The construction process involved several stages, starting around 3000 BC and not completed until 1500 BC.

The final phase of construction involved the arrangement of smaller sarsen stones and bluestones, as well as the creation of several pits around the site.

This shows that Stonehenge was not the result of a single generation or group of people, but was a long-term project involving many different groups of people.

3. Stones Brought from Far Away Form Monuments

One of the most fascinating aspects of Stonehenge is the use of stones transported from very distant locations. The large stones, called sarsens, are thought to have come from the Marlborough Downs, about 45 km from Stonehenge.

However, the smaller bluestones came from Maenclochog in Wales, about 230 km away. The process of transporting these stones in prehistoric times required extraordinary skill and technology.

The transportation techniques used to transport these huge stones remain one of the unsolved mysteries to this day.

4. Stonehenge Became the Center of Conflict in 1985

In 1985, Stonehenge was at the center of a controversial event when more than 600 people from the New Age community attempted to celebrate the summer solstice at the site.

However, they were blocked by 1,300 police officers who stopped them about 10 km from the location. The clashes that ensued lasted quite a long time, and more than 500 people were detained in one of the largest mass arrests in British history.

This incident shows how Stonehenge is not only a historical site, but also a place that sparks social and political debate.

5. Stonehenge Makes a Tinkling Sound

Apart from being famous for its large stone structures, Stonehenge also has extraordinary acoustic qualities. When struck, these stones produce a loud, resonant clinking sound. Many people believe that the sounds produced by these stones have mystical or healing powers.

In ancient cultures, these sounds may have been seen as a way to communicate with a higher power or as part of spiritual ceremonies performed around the monument. This acoustic phenomenon adds to the magic of Stonehenge.

6. Alignment with the Sun

Stonehenge is not only of interest because of its architecture, but also because of its astronomical connections. The site is built in such a way that it aligns itself with the movement of the sun.

During the summer solstice, the sun rises through gaps between boulders, and during the winter solstice, the sun sets in a similar way. This indicates extraordinary astronomical knowledge of the era, which may have been used for ritual or agricultural calendar purposes.

This is also evidence that the construction of Stonehenge was not only based on aesthetic considerations, but also on highly advanced scientific knowledge.

7. Unique Construction Techniques Used

Stonehenge uses a very unique joining technique known as tongue and groove joining, which is usually used on wood. This technique allows large stones to be joined very tightly together without using adhesives such as cement.

This technique provides stability to the structure, ensuring that the massive stones remain firmly in place even after standing for thousands of years. This is a remarkable achievement in terms of prehistoric architectural engineering.

8. The Ring of 56 Holes Surrounding Stonehenge

Stonehenge is surrounded by a ring of 56 holes known as “Aubrey Holes,” named after John Aubrey, an antiquarian who first identified them in the 17th century.

Although the exact purpose of these holes is not entirely clear, many researchers believe they may have been used for astronomical calculations or as part of certain rituals. These holes add to the mystery and uniqueness of this site.

9. Stonehenge as a Burial Place

The site was also used as a burial ground in prehistoric times. Archaeological discoveries have revealed that around 50,000 human remains have been found around Stonehenge, which are believed to date back to around 3000 to 2500 BC.

This suggests that Stonehenge may have served as a large burial site, indicating respect for the dead, as well as its important role in religious rituals of the time.

10. Round Fence Dug with Horn Tool

Before Stonehenge was built, the builders first dug a circular ditch that encircled the site. This ditch is estimated to have been about two metres deep and was dug using tools made of antler.

These tools, now popular artefacts, show the extraordinary skills of the people who built Stonehenge. Apart from its function as a physical barrier, this ditch may also have had deep ritual significance in the context of their religion or beliefs.

Stonehenge is a site full of mystery and wonder. From its intricate construction to its yet-to-be-fully-revealed function, the site continues to attract the attention and interest of people around the world.

Through these unique facts, we can understand a little more about the complexity of Stonehenge and why this site remains one of the most impressive and enigmatic Tourist Attractions in London.

With its long history, extraordinary architecture, and connection to natural phenomena, Stonehenge is a living testament to the achievements of ancient humans that continues to inspire today.