Unraveling the Enigma of Stonehenge: A New Perspective
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Chapter 1: The Secrets of Stonehenge
Stonehenge, the iconic megalithic monument, continues to guard its mysteries. Despite extensive research spanning centuries, the exact purpose of this ancient site remains elusive. Recent claims that it functioned as a vast stone calendar have now been refuted.
Megalithic structures can be found worldwide, characterized by massive stones arranged in various configurations. Some form elaborate tombs or temples, while circular arrangements are known as cromlechs. Stonehenge is the most renowned example, situated approximately 13 kilometers from Salisbury in Wiltshire, southern England. Constructed over time, it began around 3000 BC and was completed by 1600 BC. The methods used for its construction and the identity of its builders remain subjects of intrigue.
In addition to its construction, the purpose of Stonehenge has sparked considerable debate. Theories suggest it may have served as a temple, a site for rituals, an astronomical observatory, or even a calendar.
Section 1.1: The Structure of Stonehenge
Originally, Stonehenge was encircled by an earthen rampart, with stone rings positioned behind it. The outer ring comprises 30 sarsens, while an inner circle is formed by smaller bluestones. At the center, two horseshoes were built, the larger of which contains five trilithons, resembling a gateway formed by two upright stones with a third stone resting atop. Notably, both horseshoes are aligned to open towards the sunrise on the summer solstice, allowing the first rays of sunlight to illuminate those standing in the heart of Stonehenge.
Section 1.2: The Calendar Hypothesis
A recent publication in the journal Antiquity introduced an intriguing argument by Timothy Darvill, an archaeology professor at Bournemouth University, proposing that Stonehenge functioned as a massive calendar. He suggested that the 30 sarsens represented the days of a month, aggregating to 360 days in a year, with the remaining five days corresponding to the five trilithons. This theory hinges on the precise alignment of Stonehenge to mark the summer solstice.
Stonehenge Theory Confirms What We Suspected All Along - This video delves into the theories surrounding Stonehenge, including the controversial calendar hypothesis.
Chapter 2: Debunking the Calendar Theory
However, this theory has faced significant criticism. In the same journal, researchers Gulio Magli and Juan Antonio Belmonte challenged Darvill's assertions, labeling them as “groundless,” based on numerology and flawed astronomical reasoning. They argue that while Stonehenge does align with the summer solstice, it lacks the precision needed to function as a calendar. Furthermore, they highlight the selective interpretation of data, questioning why certain elements, such as the two stones forming the portal, were overlooked.
The researchers also point out cultural discrepancies, noting that the builders may not have had any influence from Egyptian calendar concepts, which operated on a 365-day year—an idea that didn’t emerge until much later in history. This raises questions about how such intricate ideas could have reached the British Isles around 2600 BC, given the lack of archaeological evidence.
Scientists Revealed the Main Secret Behind Stonehenge - In this video, experts discuss the various theories about the purpose of Stonehenge, including the challenges to the calendar theory.
In conclusion, the proposition that “Stonehenge is a calendar” lacks substantiation, leaving the true purpose of this magnificent structure still shrouded in mystery, awaiting further exploration.
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