When looking at the ruins of Stonehenge, though still grand, it is evident that the remains are part of what was a magnificent architectural megalithic structure. Stonehenge is located in Wiltshire, England and is visited every year by droves of people coming to admire or worship the remains. There is an ongoing debate of what went on at this site back in the days of the Pagans up until now.
Architectural Design
Stonehenge was built in what was believed a total of three stages. The first stage consisted of a bank that has a circumference of 320 feet and a series of Aubrey holes were dug with a circumference of 288 feet. This also included a causeway, which led into the structure. Phase two consisted of the placement of four station stones in line with the circle of Aubrey holes and the Q and R rings. The Q and R rings are newly discovered aspects that were recently found during excavation of the site. They are two separate rings formed by holes dug into the earth. Phase three is the most prominently visible aspect of the structure. In this phase a ring of Sarsen stones with lintel tops were built that has a diameter of 97 feet. This was followed by bluestones that formed an inner ring. Next there was a series of stones that form a horseshoe structure. There are also three other large stones that are placed strategically in the structure. One of these is a Heel stone, which is placed in the causeway before passing the exterior bank. A Slaughter stone was also placed in line with the ditch and the Aubrey circles after you enter from the causeway. An Alter stone can be found in the center of the structure. Many of the stones that form the central structure have fallen or are missing.
Harmony with Nature
Some of Stonehenge’s most memorable moments are during the Summer Solstice. As the sun rises on the Summer Solstice the rays of light come flooding down the causeway. The light reaches the Heel Stone and floods all around it. The sunrays end at the Alter Stone in the center of the structure.
Symbolism and Sacred Objects
Stonehenge has been seen as an astronomical device. Some theorists say that Stonehenge is a representation of the Pleiades constellation. The Avon River also mirrors the positioning of the Milky Way.
How it is used by Worshippers
Other theorists believe that Stonehenge is a place to worship those who have died. In all of the Aubrey holes that have been excavated remains have been found. Each Aubrey hole is the sight of several cremated bodies. There is thought to be hundreds more buried through out each phase of the building of Stonehenge. The remains of pig and cow bones have also been found all through the grounds of Stonehenge. This may hint at animal sacrifice, which may have been for the dead that were buried here. The indigenous people may have believed the dead were responsible for providing a good harvest. It is believed that sacrifices and gatherings were thought to be made during the Summer solstice.
Sources
http://libproxy.uta.edu:2066/login.aspx?direct=true&db=a9h&AN=9412200616&site=ehost-live
http://libproxy.uta.edu:2066/login.aspx?direct=true&db=a9h&AN=37206108&site=ehost-live
http://www.efestivals.co.uk/festivals/stonehenge/
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Stonehenge
http://www.soulsofdistortion.nl/Summer Solstice Galactic Alignment.html
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