The Secrets of Stonehenge: Mysteries of an Ancient Monument

Jane Francis

Photo by Samuel Wölfl on Pexels

Stonehenge, one of England’s most iconic landmarks, continues to baffle and intrigue visitors and historians alike. With its towering stones and ancient origins, this prehistoric site has secrets that make it endlessly fascinating.

Complex Construction Phases

Stonehenge wasn’t built in a day—or even a century. It evolved over three major phases spanning about 1,000 years, beginning around 3100 B.C.E. The first phase started with the creation of a circular ditch and bank, called a henge, along with 56 pits known as Aubrey holes, which might have held wooden posts or stones. Then came the addition of bluestones, transported all the way from Wales—somehow—despite each one weighing up to 4 tons.

The final touch was the massive sarsen stones, weighing up to 50 tons, set into place with techniques like mortise and tenon joints. The level of skill and planning required for this construction still amazes experts today.

Discover more of its creation here:

Purpose and Function

What was Stonehenge used for? That’s a question no one can definitively answer. Some think it was a ceremonial site or even an ancient observatory used to track celestial events. However, early excavations revealed cremated remains in the Aubrey holes, suggesting it also served as a burial ground.

The combination of ritual and practical uses adds to the monument’s mystery, leaving plenty of room for speculation about the lives and beliefs of its builders.

Find out more here:

Transportation of Stones

The challenge of transporting the massive stones remains a mystery. The smaller bluestones were brought from the Preseli Hills in Wales, over 200 miles away, while the larger sarsen stones came from Marlborough Downs, roughly 20 miles to the north. Various theories suggest methods like waterways, but accomplishing such a feat without modern tools would have required extraordinary effort and skill.

This achievement highlights the ingenuity and determination of the ancient builders, whose methods continue to fascinate experts.

Find out more here:

From its complex construction to its uncertain purpose, Stonehenge remains a marvel of ancient engineering and mystery. It’s no wonder it continues to draw curiosity from all over the world.

Jane Francis, at the dynamic age of 40, ingeniously combines her roles as a travel journalist, gourmet chef, and doting single mother. Her insatiable curiosity and passion for exploration are reflected in her vivid writing and global culinary influences. A lover of authenticity, Jane creates memorable experiences, turning her journeys into a symphony of flavors and stories.