Stonehenge is one of the most famous monuments in the world, and archaeologists remain puzzled by its mystifying weathered stones. Those standing against the dramatic English countryside keep it shrouded in mystery. Among the many questions that surround this ancient site are those about the fate of the missing megaliths.
Ancient Alignment
It may make their hair stand on end by standing on Stonehenge on the winter solstice. It will see exactly the breathtaking site, such as setting sun aligned through the monument’s towering stone. Not an accident of course. Scientists believe it was the arrangement made astronomical accurate, but 4,500 years ago that would have been an added sight. Other megaliths stood to add to this formation.
Today, only a single towering stone, known as Stone 56, remains from what was once a larger, more elaborate structure. Evidence suggests that many of these upright stones were removed or destroyed over the centuries, leaving gaps in the circle, and raising questions about their original purpose and appearance.
Clues Beneath the Surface
The history of Stonehenge has interesting facts that archaeologists have unearthed through centuries of excavation and study. While early diagrams from the 16th century give an idea of the monument, it was only in the 18th century that detailed plans showed its structure. Interestingly, most of the stones that are visible today have been rearranged or reinforced in modern times to ensure the site is conserved for future generations.
Evidence in hidden pits and postholes across the monument has brought about the revelation of what could not be seen. Of the pits, some contained smaller bluestones from as far as Wales were transported. Others show a second set of large sarsen stones that possibly have been removed or rearranged over the centuries ago.
A Changing Landscape
By the mid-20th century, significant restoration efforts had stabilized Stonehenge, and its huge stones would not topple. Other centuries, however, took a different approach. Tourists have been known to chip pieces from the megaliths as souvenirs. And some of the stones have been broken up and carried off. Excavations revealed hammer and chisel marks on fallen stones, giving the impression that people were trying to dismantle the monument for other purposes.
Findings That Link the Past
Perhaps the most interesting discovery that was made was on Altar Stone, a peculiar sandstone megalith located right in the centre of the monument. Geochemical analysis revealed that whereas many of the bluestones came from Wales, this stone was an import from northeast Scotland. This alone speaks to how incredible distances were travelled for the procurement of materials from Stonehenge’s creators, which adds to yet more mystery surrounding this place.
Conservation of the Heritage
Despite the many centuries, human interference, and natural decay, Stonehenge still stands as a testament to the ingenuity and vision of its creators. Whether it is questions about missing stones or its original design, new research continues to throw open the history of the monument.
And yet, as people look upon this ancient wonder, the mysteries of Stonehenge endure and invite curiosity and awe for generations to come.
The post Unveiling the Secrets of Stonehenge’s Lost Monoliths appeared first on Native Springs News.
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