How old is stonehenge case study
The famous circle of large sarsen stones were placed between 2600 BC and 2400 BC. The surrounding circular earth bank and ditch, which constitute the earliest phase of the monument, have been dated to about 3100 BC..
Unraveling the Mysteries of Stonehenge: How Old is It and Who Built It?
Stonehenge, the iconic prehistoric monument in Wiltshire, England, has captivated the imaginations of people around the world for centuries.
A sample of nine age estimates from unshed antlers excavated from the ditch produced a mean of 3033.1 c., with standard deviation 6.9 years.
The ring of massive standing stones, each around 13 feet high and weighing up to 30 tons, is an awe-inspiring sight that raises enduring questions: Just how old is Stonehenge, and who built this marvel of ancient engineering?
Construction Phases: A Millennium in the Making
Far from being built overnight, Stonehenge was constructed in several distinct phases over a span of more than 1500 years.
Here is a detailed timeline of the key stages in the monument‘s long and complex history:
| Phase | Date | Description |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | 3000 BC | First henge monument of circular bank and ditch built |
| 2 | 2900 BC | Timber posts erected in center, cremation burials |
| 3 | 2600 BC | Bluestones brought from Wales, erected in double circle |
| 4 | 2500-2100 BC | Sarsen stones erected in outer circle and trilithons |
| 5 | 2100-1800 BC | Bluestones re-arranged into inner oval and circle |
| 6 | 16
|