Stonehenge Research Paper

For this research paper I’ll be writing about one of the most famous monument in the world. Stonehenge is one of the world’s most famous monuments. Stonehenge is a unique prehistoric monument, lying at the center of an outstandingly rich archaeological landscape. An extraordinary source for the study of prehistory, it holds a pivotal place in the development of archaeology. It stands on Salisbury Plain, in Wiltshire, and its giant stones can be seen from miles around. Stonehenge was built over many hundreds of years. It was built in several stages: the first monument was an early henge monument, built about 5,000 years ago, and the unique stone circle was erected in the late Neolithic period about 2500 BC. Work began in the late Neolithic Age,

around 3000BC. Over the thousands of years, people have made many changes to the monument. The last changes were made in the early Bronze Age, around 1500BC. It took a huge effort to build Stonehenge. The only tools the builders had were made of stone, wood and rope. Only a few stones are left standing today. Many different theories have been put forward about who built it, when, and why? The Celtics believed that the Sun and Moon had a special power over their lives. It is very likely that they held special ceremonies and ceremonial burial rituals there. Today, the interpretation of Stonehenge which is most generally accepted is that of a prehistoric temple aligned with the movements of the sun. Stonehenge continues to have a role as a sacred place of special religious and cultural significance for many.