History Of Stonehenge

It is believed that the very first structures in the area comprise about four or five pits, of which three show evidence of having held tall pole-like posts. It has been suggested that these were erected here during the Mesolithic period between 8500-7000 BC. It is, however, not clear in the history of Stonehenge whether these structures are in any way related to the later rock pieces or not. Historians are of the opinion that much of the area where Stonehenge is was a barren landscape as opposed to the rest of southern England which was covered with woods at the time. 

Check This Out: Theories About Stonehenge

The history of Stonehenge suggests that its first components comprised structures like the Heel Stone and the North Barrow which is more of a low mound. Among the earliest known major constructions, however, was a round ditch with an inner and outer bank and about 56 pits inside. These were built around 3000 BC and are known as the Aubrey Holes. This resembled an early form of a henge monument that had two entrances as well. The purpose of the Aubrey Holes however has been a source of debate for many years with the majority opinion stating that they used to hold the timber poles. Evidence also suggests that Stonehenge had been the largest Neolithic cemetery in the British Isles.

Read More: How To Reach Stonehenge

The stone settings of this ancient monument comprise a big part of Stonehenge history and are also among its most distinctive features. The stones are classified into two main types: sarsens, which were the larger rocks and bluestones, which were the smaller ones. The sarsen circles were set up in two concentric circles, the inner formation was in the shape of a horseshoe and the outer in the form of a circle. However, the bluestones were arranged within and around the sarsen circle in the form of a double arc.

Once Stonehenge was built, the people from the Neolithic and Bronze Ages went on using the site for a variety of purposes, both ceremonial and ritualistic. The history of Stonehenge also reveals that the site was used as a gathering place for important religious and social events, including burials, marriages, and other rites of passage. With the passage of time, there were a number of modifications brought to the monument. For instance, the bluestones were rearranged more than once, and later several other additional stones were brought in. While some of these newer stones were placed in holes dug in the ground, others were hoisted up in various formations.

Do Checkout: Stonehenge Opening Hours

According to the later Stonehenge history, the site continued to hold on to its importance for centuries to come. Around 700 BC, during the Iron Age the location shows evidence of visits by pilgrims who came to pay respects to the dead buried here. 

In later years, Stonehenge found mention in different works, particularly during the period when Britain was occupied by the Romans. Many Roman objects have been found there according to recent excavations and later on, during the Middle Ages the site sprang up as a place of cultural and spiritual significance. 

Check This Out: Southampton To Stonehenge

Around the late 19th and early 20th century, massive tracts of land in and around the area of Stonehenge were taken in for military activities. The site saw the coming up of barracks, airfields, firing ranges, field hospitals, and light railways during the First World War. While some of them have been demolished, several such as the Larkhill airfield sheds, still stand. There have also been a lot of efforts in recent decades in the protection and preservation of the site such as the creation of a protective barrier around the stones. 

Read More: Activities To Do In Stonehenge