Thursday, April 21, 2011

Secrets of Stonehenge


Stonehenge, Source: wikipedia.com
There's been many theories about Stonehenge.  The most common is also the most taught in school, its existence as an ancient astronomical calendar.  This theory has been around since the 1960's when astronomer Gerald Hawkins offered the world his most comprehensive theory of Stonehenge.  But did you know that there is now a new hypothesis that offers the most solid evidence to the purpose of this prehistoric monument?

In 2008, the British government finally allowed the excavation of Stonehenge by two archaeologists.  This hasn't been done since the 1920's.  Their dig led to the discovery of skeletal remains that dated to a 500-year period beginning in 3000 B.C.  The bodies are likely to belong to an elite group of ancient people, perhaps royalties.  The evidence is strong but it doesn't exclude the monument's dual purpose of an astronomical calendar as well as a religious site.

This discovery also led to a discovery of a new ring found not too far from Stonehenge, down by the River Avon.  This new site is called Bluestonehenge and was discovered during the Stonehenge Riverside Project during its excavation between 2003-2008.

You can learn more about this discovery by checking out PBS, click here:

PBS Nova: Secrets of Stonehenge Video

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