In a groundbreaking archaeological discovery, researchers have unearthed evidence of two previously unknown prehistoric stone circles in southern England. One of these ancient monuments bears striking similarities to the early phase of the iconic Stonehenge, shedding new light on our understanding of Neolithic architecture and cultural practices.
Unveiling ancient secrets : The Metheral stone circle
The primary site, dubbed the Metheral stone circle, was uncovered during extensive fieldwork near Taw Marsh in Dartmoor National Park, Devon. This remarkable find is the result of years of dedicated research led by Alan Endacott, a self-funded Ph.D. researcher from the University of Exeter’s Department of Archaeology.
The Metheral stone circle boasts an impressive structure, consisting of approximately 40 stones in total. About half of these stones remain visible on the surface, while the others lie buried beneath the earth. The circle’s unique shape sets it apart from traditional circular formations :
- Measures 131 feet west to east
- Spans 108 feet north to south
- Features a flattened southern perimeter
One of the most intriguing aspects of the Metheral stone circle is the presence of an external bank, uncovered during excavations. This feature suggests a possible connection to Neolithic henge monuments, drawing comparisons to other famous prehistoric sites such as :
| Site | Location |
|---|---|
| Stripple Stones | Bodmin Moor |
| Ring of Brodgar | Orkney |
| Avebury | Wiltshire |
| Early Stonehenge | Wiltshire |
A glimpse into Neolithic Britain : Similarities to early Stonehenge
The comparison to the early phase of Stonehenge is particularly noteworthy. Dating back to around 3000 B.C., the initial construction of Stonehenge consisted of earthworks and a circular ditch. Over the following two millennia, the site underwent numerous modifications and additions, evolving into the iconic monument we know today.
The similarities between the Metheral stone circle and early Stonehenge provide valuable insights into the development of megalithic architecture during the Neolithic period. This discovery contributes significantly to our understanding of how ancient Britons perceived their natural surroundings and incorporated celestial observations into their monumental structures.
Endacott emphasizes the importance of these findings, stating, “The discoveries are significant in the national context of our understanding of the development and purpose of stone circles, and very significant in terms of our understanding of Dartmoor’s prehistory and environmental change.”
Expanding the prehistoric landscape : A second stone circle and additional discoveries
The archaeological team’s efforts yielded more than just the Metheral stone circle. A second stone circle was identified approximately 0.6 miles north of the primary site. This additional structure occupies a prominent position overlooking the Taw Marsh valley, surrounded by substantial hills.
The discovery of these two stone circles aligns with Endacott’s hypothesis of a ring of monuments dotting the northern half of Dartmoor National Park. This theory led to the earlier discovery of the Sittaford stone circle in 2007, located about five miles south of the recent finds.
In addition to the stone circles, the excavations revealed other significant prehistoric structures, including :
- A collapsed dolmen (a type of single-chamber prehistoric tomb)
- Various geophysical anomalies hinting at further archaeological features
These discoveries collectively paint a vivid picture of the monumentalization process in western Britain during the later Neolithic period. They offer valuable insights into how ancient societies viewed the cosmos, perceived their natural landscape, and honored the sacred places of their ancestors.
Unraveling the mysteries of prehistoric Britain
The recent discoveries in Dartmoor contribute to the rich tapestry of prehistoric monuments scattered across Great Britain and Ireland. With over 1,000 known surviving stone circles, these enigmatic structures continue to captivate archaeologists and the public alike.
While the exact purpose of stone circles remains a subject of debate, they are generally believed to have served ceremonial, ritual, or astronomical functions. The Metheral stone circle and its companion site provide fresh evidence to support these theories and may offer new perspectives on the cultural practices of Neolithic Britain.
As research continues, these newfound monuments promise to yield further insights into the lives and beliefs of our ancient ancestors. The dedication of researchers like Alan Endacott and the countless volunteers who assist in such excavations ensures that the secrets of prehistoric Britain will continue to be unveiled, one stone at a time.
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