The main axis aligns precisely with the summer solstice sunrise and winter solstice sunset, proving that Neolithic builders mastered a solar calendar. Large numbers of human cremation remains and hundreds of hidden burials and ritual pits revealed by ground-penetrating radar have been found around it. Some bluestones came from Wales, 200 km away, and the transport method (glacial vs human) is still debated.
Account
The main axis aligns precisely with the summer solstice sunrise and winter solstice sunset, proving that Neolithic builders mastered a solar calendar. Large numbers of human cremation remains and hundreds of hidden burials and ritual pits revealed by ground-penetrating radar have been found around it. Some bluestones came from Wales, 200 km away, and the transport method (glacial vs human) is still debated.
Contested
The astronomical alignment and ritual function are confirmed. The transport method for the bluestones remains debated. No supernatural element is required by any mainstream hypothesis.
Sources
- English Heritage archives
- Antiquity archaeological reports