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Stonehenge

History of Stonehenge

Stonehenge is situated in a landscape rich with prehistoric monuments. Prior to the construction of Stonehenge, the area was home to earlier Neolithic structures such as long barrows and causewayed enclosures. The establishment of Stonehenge marked a significant development in the cultural and religious practices of the people living during the late Neolithic and early Bronze Age periods.

Construction Phases

Phase 1 (c.3000 BCE)

The first construction phase of Stonehenge involved the creation of a circular henge—a ditch, a bank, and the Aubrey Holes. The ditch was dug using deer antlers as picks, and the chalk from the ditch was piled up to create the bank. The 56 Aubrey Holes, named after John Aubrey, who first identified them in the 17th century, might have held timber posts or small stones. The exact purpose of these early phases is not entirely clear, but the cremated remains found in these pits suggest they might have been used for burial or ceremonial purposes.

Phase 2 (c. 2900 – 2600 BCE)

During this phase, the builders transported approximately 80 bluestones from the Preseli Hills in Wales, about 140 miles away. This phase saw the stones arranged in two concentric arcs. The exact route and method of transportation remain a subject of debate, but it likely involved a combination of overland transportation using sledges and rollers and possibly water transportation along rivers and the coast.

Phase 3 (c. 2600 – 2400 BCE)

This phase marks the erection of the large sarsen stones from the Marlborough Downs. The sarsen was shaped and arranged in a circle with horizontal lines, creating a continuous outer ring. Inside, five trilithons—pairs of large vertical stones topped with horizontal lintels—were arranged in a horseshoe shape. This phase required advanced engineering, including the use of mortise and tenon joints to secure the lintels. The alignment of these stones with the solstices suggests a sophisticated understanding of astronomy.

Subsequent Modifications (c.2400-1600 BCE)

Over the next few centuries, the layout of Stonehenge was modified several times. Additional bluestones were added, rearranged, and some were even removed. The central bluestone arrangement was reconfigured into a circle and inner oval. These modifications indicate ongoing use and adaptation of the site, reflecting changing cultural and religious practices.

Stonehenge

Landscape and Surrounding Monuments

Stonehenge is part of a prehistoric border landscape rich with other significant archaeological features, indicating that the area was a focal point for Neolithic and Bronze Age communities.

The Cursus

The Stonehenge Cursus, a large parallel-sided earthwork located north of Stonehenge, is one of the oldest features in the landscape, predating Stonehenge by several centuries. Its purpose remains unclear, but it may have served as a ceremonial or processional route.

Durrington Walls

Located approximately 2 miles (3 km) from Stonehenge, Durrington Walls is a large Neolithic settlement and henge enclosure. Excavations have revealed houses, pottery, tools, and animal bones, suggesting that it was a thriving community. It is believed that the people living at Durrington Walls may have been involved in the construction of Stonehenge. The site includes the so-called “Woodhenge,” a timber circle that might have had similar ceremonial functions to Stonehenge.

Avenue and Bluestonehenge

The Avenue is a ceremonial pathway connecting Stonehenge to the River Avon. Excavations along the Avenue have uncovered features and artifacts that provide insights into the rituals and processions that might have taken place. Bluestonehenge, discovered near the end of Avenue by the river, is a circle of bluestones that were later moved to Stonehenge. This site adds to the complexity of the prehistoric landscape and suggests a sequence of construction events and ritual activities.

Mythology and Legends behind Stonehenge

Stonehenge has been the subject of various myths and legends throughout history, reflecting the human fascination with the mysterious monument. These stories range from ancient lore to more recent folklore, each adding layers of intrigue and mystique to the iconic stone circle.

Ancient and Medieval Legends

Merlin and King Arthur

One of the most famous legends involving Stonehenge is tied to the mythical wizard Merlin and King Arthur. This story, popularized by Geoffrey of Monmouth in his 12th-century work "Historia Regum Britanniae" (The History of the Kings of Britain), suggests that Stonehenge was constructed through Merlin’s magical intervention.

The Giant's Dance: According to the legend, the stones were originally located in Africa and brought to Ireland by a race of giants. These stones were known as the "Giant's Dance." When the British King Aurelius Ambrosius wanted to erect a memorial to the slain British nobles, Merlin advised moving these stones to England. With the help of his magic, Merlin transported the stones across the sea and reassembled them on Salisbury Plain, creating Stonehenge.

King Arthur Connection: Some variations of the legend also connect Stonehenge to King Arthur, suggesting that it was a sacred site for the knights of the Round Table. The association with Arthurian legends adds a romantic and heroic dimension to the mythos of Stonehenge.

Druids and Celts

Although there is no direct evidence linking the Druids, the priestly class of the ancient Celts, to the construction of Stonehenge, they have long been associated with the site in popular imagination. This connection was largely promoted in the 18th century by the antiquarian William Stukeley, who incorrectly attributed Stonehenge to Druidic rituals.

Druidic Rituals: The image of white-robed Druids performing rituals at Stonehenge has become a powerful and enduring symbol. Modern Druidic groups still celebrate solstices at Stonehenge, maintaining the mythological link between the ancient monument and Celtic spirituality.

Stonehenge

Folklore and Local Legends

The Heel Stone

The Heel Stone, a solitary stone located outside the main circle of Stonehenge, has its own folklore.

The Devil’s Stone: One legend suggests that the Devil bought the stones from a woman in Ireland, wrapped them in a cloak, and brought them to Salisbury Plain. He intended to use them to create a monument that would mock the people. When one of the stones fell and struck the devil’s heel, it left a mark. The heel stone is said to bear the imprint of this event.

Heel Stone and the Friar: Another tale involves a friar who attempts to collect the stones, only to be thwarted by the Devil. In anger, the Devil threw one of the stones at the friar, missing him but hitting the ground instead. This stone became known as the heel stone.