Stonehenge boulders were moved by humans, new study reveals

Stonehenge

Located in Wiltshire, England, Stonehenge speaks for itself as one of the most significant and iconic prehistoric monuments in the world. Despite thousands of years of existence, archaeologists are still learning more about it today.

How was Stonehenge built?

The exact methods are still debated, but we now know that the bluestones were transported by humans from west Wales—not carried by glaciers, as once thought. How exactly it was built is, however, still up for debate. 

Complexities

Undoubtedly, the construction of the site required immense and complex planning, labor, and organization. No other monument in the region holds stones that were brought from such faraway places.

Ancient calendar

Many people gather at Stonehenge for both summer (pictured) and winter solstices. It is believed that Stonehenge was an ancient calendar of sorts.

Astronomical events

For this reason, some historians have also argued that Stonehenge was used by prehistoric people to observe astronomical events, such as eclipses.

Ritualistic

There are also theories about the possibility of its use in ritualistic activities with some sort of ceremonial components.

Early farming communities

In December 2024, a Stonehenge expert offered a new explanation of the monument’s significance, namely to early farming communities.

Altar stone

The altar stone does not often receive a great deal of attention. It lies flat. Therefore, it was assumed that the stone had fallen. Yet, Parker Pearson makes a link to sites in north-east Scotland, where other stones are also laid flat in circular formats.

Microcosm

In a paper that has yet to be published, Parker Pearson shares that “Stonehenge stands out in being a material and monumental microcosm of the entirety of the British Isles.”

Purpose may have been missed

Although Parker Pearson doesn’t deny the site's multiple uses, he does point to how there may be a greater purpose, a political purpose, that we missed over the centuries.

Altar stone installed 2,500 BCE

The altar stone was likely installed after the original layout of Stonehenge existed. Archaeologists believe it was placed there sometime around 2,500 BCE.

Second stage

It is part of this historical happening that has led to the theory that perhaps the “second stage” of Stonehenge – the installation of the altar, in this case – was an “attempt to assert unity.”

Failure to unite newcomers

The Beaker people are believed to have built Stonehenge, which Pearson believes was to create unity between the different communities, but unfortunately, this didn't work.