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Introduction to Stonehenge

  • Stonehenge is considered the most famous prehistoric monument in the world.

  • It has been widely discussed, written about, and even depicted in films.

  • Known for its mysterious nature and architectural significance.

Building Chronology of Stonehenge

  • Initial Construction (c. 3100 BCE)

  • Creation of concentric circular ditches, known as the Aubrey holes (56 holes filled with chalk).

  • Addition of the heel stone, marking an axis leading into and out of the central circle.

  • Bluestone Placement (c. 2400 BCE)

  • Bluestones (weighing around 2 tons each) were brought from a quarry in Southwest Wales, representing a major logistical effort.

  • Bluestones were arranged in a circular formation, later moved and altered.

  • U-Shaped Configuration (c. 1400 BCE)

  • Introduction of a U-shape opening toward the heel stone, with a processional path known as the avenue.

  • Finalization of the monument's layout involving the pairing of uprights and horizontal lintels called trilithons.

  • Construction activity spanned roughly 1500 years.

Architectural Analysis

  • Plan Types

  • Two fundamental plan types present:

    • Central Plan: Concentric circles around a central point.

    • Longitudinal Plan: An axis that extends from the U-shape through the heel stone and along the avenue.

  • Sophisticated use of both layout types in the monument.

  • Solar Alignment

  • Aligned with the sunrise during the summer solstice (June 21), illuminating the altar stone.

  • Significant cultural and spiritual experiences tied to this celestial event.

  • Example from 2020 where the sunrise was streamed live during the pandemic.

Structural Features

  • Trilithons

  • Comprised of two vertical posts and a horizontal lintel.

  • The mortise-and-tenon joint mechanism provides structural stability, likening it to building blocks (e.g., Lego).

Cultural Interpretations Over Time

  • Geoffrey of Monmouth (Middle Ages)

  • Suggested that Stonehenge was the burial site of Uther Pendragon, king Arthur's father.

  • Later proven to be a baseless theory, lacking archaeological evidence.

  • Inigo Jones (17th Century)

  • Asserted that Stonehenge was a Roman structure and temple, a claim considered unfounded.

  • John Aubrey

  • Associated the monument with the Druids, despite their historical presence being much later than Stonehenge's construction.

  • Gerald Hawkins (1965)

  • Claimed Stonehenge served as an astronomical observatory, which has since been contested.

  • The idea of a single "solution" to Stonehenge's purpose has been rejected by many scholars.

Conclusion

  • Cultural Significance

  • Stonehenge represents a complex, sophisticated construction, rich in themes including solar alignment and structural engineering.

  • Its purpose remains open to interpretation, highlighting the monument's enduring mystique and cultural relevance.

  • Each era has imposed its meanings onto Stonehenge, making it a cultural "blank slate" while still demonstrating the high level of effort and ingenuity of its builders.