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Contents
Stonehenge Facts: Discover the Mysterious Prehistoric Monument
10 interesting facts about Stonehenge
1. Stonehenge is close to 5000 years old
The prehistoric stone circle is one of the oldest manmade structures in the world. It is still a mystery why this circular arrangement of huge stones was made in the first place. However, it is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Europe. Stonehenge is also older than the Pyramids of Egypt.
2. It was a 1500 year-long construction project
Although it is not certain when the construction of Stonehenge started, archaeologists have made strong claims over the years that it began around 3000 BC, and the last modification was made around 1500 BC with the rearrangement of bluestones and the digging of additional holes.
3. Stones from near and far made the journey to complete the monument
The circular structure is made of two different kinds of stones. The megaliths are Sarsen, which is a sandstone that is common in the region. The Sarsen stones are believed to have come from the Marlborough Downs, around 30 miles away. The smaller stones are called bluestones due to the slight bluish tint when wet or cut. These are believed to have been transported around 150 miles to Wiltshire from Maenclochog, Wales.
4. Stonehenge was the cause of conflict in 1985
In 1985, more than 600 new-age travelers were en route to celebrate the Stonehenge Free Festival. However, their convoy was stopped 7 miles before the landmark by a contingent of 1300 policemen. The confrontation turned violent and went on for several hours before 537 travelers were arrested in one of the biggest mass arrests of civilians in the history of England.
5. The Stonehenge is a grouping of large ‘ringing rocks’
The historic monument may have been erect for thousands of years, but it has not lost its acoustic properties making it even more spectacular. When struck, the stones produce a loud clanging sound. It is believed that the sound from these stones was considered to have healing properties in ancient cultures.
6. Stonehenge has a special view for sunrises and sunsets
Stonehenge has been created in such a way that it is aligned with the summer solstice’s sunrise and the winter solstice’s sunset. Considering the monument's age, it would have been a great architectural feat at the time it was built.
7. A unique joint was used in its construction
The tongue and groove joints used to secure the lintels (the horizontal stones that lie atop the vertical sarsens) are usually found only in woodworking.
8. A ring of 56 pits surround Stonehenge
The historic structure is surrounded by a ring of 56 pits inside the bank and ditch called 'Aubrey holes'. The ditch was named after John Aubrey, a 17th-century antiquarian.
9. Stonehenge was a burial ground
Various excavations throughout the last few decades have made archaeologists and historians believe that Stonehenge was originally a burial ground. In 2013, an excavation project led to archaeologists finding cremated remains of over 50,000 bones dating back 3000 - 2500 BC.
10. A circular enclosure was dug with antler picks
The Stonehenge is enclosed by a circular ditch of 6 feet in depth. The ditch was dug using antler picks, popular exhibits today at the Stonehenge exhibition. The earthwork is believed to have been the first phase of the construction.
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Frequetly asked questions about Stonehenge facts
What is Stonehenge known for?
Stonehenge is known for its massive standing stones arranged in concentric circles, showcasing remarkable engineering and architectural prowess.
When was Stonehenge built?
Stonehenge was constructed in stages, starting around 3000 BC during the Neolithic period and evolving over 800 years into the Bronze Age.
When is Stonehenge open?
Stonehenge is open everyday from 9:30am to 5pm in the winter and 9:30am to 7pm in the summer.
What is the significance of Stonehenge?
Stonehenge's purpose remains uncertain, but theories range from religious rituals to astronomical observations. It likely served multiple functions over its long history.
How far is Stonehenge from London?
Stonehenge is approximately 88 miles southwest of London, making it a great day trip option from the capital.
When is the best time to visit Stonehenge?
The best times to visit Stonehenge are from March to June and September to November, avoiding peak crowds. Weekdays are preferable, and the best time of day is when it opens at 9:30am. It is less crowded before 11am and after 2pm so plan your visit accordingly. This will also allow you to participate in the sunrise or sunset tour.