New research suggests that Stonehenge, one of the world’s most iconic ancient monuments, may have been constructed as a way to unify people across Britain. This theory gains strength from surprising findings—some of the site’s stones originated from as far away as northeast Scotland, hundreds of miles from its home in Wiltshire.
Professor Mike Parker Pearson, one of the study’s lead researchers from the UCL Institute of Archaeology, highlighted what makes Stonehenge unique. Unlike over 900 other stone circles across Britain, its stones were sourced from various, distant locations. This diversity of origins sets it apart and could reflect a significant effort to bring communities together.
“We’ve known for some time that people traveled from many parts of Britain, bringing their pigs and cattle to feast at Durrington Walls,” Prof. Parker Pearson explained. “Nearly half of the people buried at Stonehenge lived outside Salisbury Plain. Now, the connections between Stonehenge’s architecture and material culture, and that of northern Scotland, make even more sense.”
Stones Traveling Hundreds of Miles
The study, published in Archaeology International, also reveals that the 43 bluestones at Stonehenge were transported about 140 miles from Wales. Earlier this year, researchers identified the massive six-tonne Altar Stone as originating from northeastern Scotland. They estimate it arrived around 2500 BC, during a period when Stonehenge was being remodeled.
Co-author Professor Richard Bevins, from Aberystwyth University, described the geological detective work behind these findings. “Our research is like forensic science,” he said. “It’s a collaborative effort of earth scientists pooling different expertise. That’s how we’ve been able to pinpoint the origins of the bluestones and now the Altar Stone.”
Interestingly, the Altar Stone bears similarities in size and placement to the horizontal stones found in northeast Scotland’s stone circles. These specific stone circles, unique to Scotland, hint at possible close ties between the people of Wiltshire and the northern regions during this time.
More Than Just Stones
The findings also add a fascinating political dimension to the mystery of Stonehenge. While theories have previously identified it as a religious temple, an observatory, or even a solar calendar, this new insight suggests the monument may have also served as a symbol of unity.
The first construction phase involved Welsh bluestones, while the second phase around 2500 BC shows growing contact between Britain and mainland Europe. Researchers think Stonehenge’s evolving structure reflects not just a gathering of stones, but a gathering of people, cultures, and ideas.
Stonehenge continues to captivate us with its secrets, adding new layers of meaning to its already rich history. Whether as an ancient meeting point or a grand display of political collaboration, it remains a lasting testament to human ingenuity and connection.