The discovery of two new stone circles in Dartmoor National Park has ignited excitement among archaeologists and history enthusiasts alike. These ancient structures, reminiscent of the iconic Stonehenge, offer fresh insights into the prehistoric landscape of the United Kingdom. Archaeologist Alan Endacott’s recent findings not only expand our understanding of Neolithic monuments but also lend support to his intriguing “sacred arc” theory.
Unveiling the sacred arc : New stone circles in Dartmoor
Dartmoor National Park, nestled in the heart of Devon, England, has long been a treasure trove of prehistoric remains. The recent unearthing of two Neolithic stone circles adds another layer to the park’s rich archaeological tapestry. One of these structures bears a striking resemblance to Stonehenge, sparking comparisons with the world-famous monument.
Alan Endacott, the archaeologist behind this groundbreaking discovery, believes these newly found circles play a crucial role in supporting his “sacred arc” theory. This hypothesis suggests that the megalithic structures within Dartmoor form a deliberate pattern across the landscape, creating a sacred boundary or pathway.
Endacott’s theory proposes that these stone circles were strategically placed to :
- Mark significant points in the landscape
- Enclose areas of spiritual importance
- Serve as navigational aids in a heavily forested environment
- Create a symbolic boundary between the mundane and the sacred
The archaeologist explains, “Dartmoor would have been very different then, there would have been a lot more forest cover. So possibly they were markers in the landscape, they recognised the higher ground and wanted to kind of enclose it for some reason.“
Similarities to Stonehenge and other ancient monuments
One of the newly discovered stone circles exhibits features remarkably similar to those found at Stonehenge. This similarity extends beyond mere appearance, potentially indicating shared construction techniques or cultural influences across different regions of prehistoric Britain.
Endacott’s observations of the surrounding area have led him to draw parallels with other well-known Neolithic sites. He notes, “The external bank near the circle is suggestive of a Neolithic henge monument of a similar form to the Stripple Stones on Bodmin Moor [in Cornwall], the Ring of Brodgar on Orkney or even the earlier phase of Stonehenge.“
This connection raises intriguing possibilities about the movement and interactions of Neolithic people across the British Isles. Endacott even speculates that the builders of these Dartmoor circles may have encountered Stonehenge during their travels, potentially influencing their designs and spiritual practices.
| Monument | Location | Notable Features |
|---|---|---|
| New Dartmoor Circles | Devon, England | Stonehenge-like features, part of “sacred arc” |
| Stonehenge | Wiltshire, England | Iconic stone circle, precise astronomical alignments |
| Stripple Stones | Cornwall, England | Henge monument with external bank |
| Ring of Brodgar | Orkney, Scotland | Large stone circle, part of UNESCO World Heritage site |
Implications for understanding Neolithic Britain
The discovery of these new stone circles in Dartmoor has far-reaching implications for our understanding of Neolithic Britain. By adding to the existing network of known megalithic structures, these findings help paint a more comprehensive picture of how ancient Britons interacted with their landscape and expressed their spiritual beliefs.
Key insights gained from this discovery include :
- Expanded sacred geography : The new circles support the idea of an interconnected network of ritual sites across southern Britain.
- Cultural connections : Similarities between these structures and other monuments suggest widespread sharing of ideas and practices.
- Landscape use : The positioning of these circles offers clues about how Neolithic people navigated and utilized their environment.
- Technological capabilities : The construction of these monuments demonstrates the advanced engineering skills of our ancestors.
Endacott’s previous discovery of a stone circle in Dartmoor in 2007 – the first such find in over a century – laid the groundwork for this latest breakthrough. His consistent work in the area has dramatically enhanced our knowledge of prehistoric Dartmoor and its significance in the wider context of Neolithic Britain.
Unraveling ancient mysteries
While these new discoveries have shed light on the prehistoric landscape of Dartmoor, they have also raised new questions about the purpose and meaning of these ancient structures. Endacott acknowledges this duality, stating, “These excavations exceeded my expectations and brought new evidence to light that will help with our understanding, but inevitably they have also raised more questions about why they were built.“
The mystery surrounding the UK’s megalithic structures continues to captivate scholars and the public alike. These stone circles, standing silent for millennia, offer tantalizing glimpses into the lives, beliefs, and capabilities of our Neolithic ancestors. As research continues, each new discovery brings us closer to unraveling the enigmas of Britain’s ancient past.
Future investigations may focus on :
- Detailed mapping of the “sacred arc” and its relationship to other prehistoric sites
- Archaeoastronomical studies to determine any celestial alignments
- Analysis of construction techniques and stone sourcing
- Exploration of potential ritual or ceremonial uses of these spaces
As we continue to piece together the puzzle of Neolithic Britain, the stone circles of Dartmoor stand as a testament to the ingenuity, spirituality, and connection to the landscape that defined our ancient predecessors. These silent sentinels, forming their mysterious arc across the moors, invite us to step back in time and contemplate the sacred geographies that shaped the beliefs and practices of long-ago civilizations.
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