Smaller stones, referred to as bluestones (they have a bluish tinge when wet or
freshly broken), weigh up to 4 tons and come from several different sites in
western Wales, having been transported as far as 140 miles (225 km). Its
unknown how people in antiquity moved them that far. Scientists speculate that
during the last ice age glaciers might have carried these bluestones closer to the
Stonehenge area. An earlier theory was that the builders could have used rafts to
transport the stones over the water. However, more recent research suggests
that this method cant have been used because of the weight of the stones.
There are a number of theories as to what the site was used for. Archaeologists
agree that the site must have had a spiritual significance. It may have originally
been a cemetery, according to a new study. After examining bones exhumed
near the stones, scientists believe that the burials must have taken place at the
same time as Stonehenge was built, suggesting that the stones could have been
gravestones for religious or political elite.
1. What are scientists certain about the significance of Stonehenge?
had a spiritual significance
2. Scientists are sure that Stonehenge was a cemetery T/F
Stonehenge may have been constructed with the sun in mind. One avenue
connecting the monument with the nearby River Avon aligns with the sun on the
winter solstice; archaeological evidence reveals that pigs were slaughtered at
Stonehenge in December and January, suggesting that ancient pagan sun
celebrations might have taken place there.
1. Why do scientists think the builders chose the location for the
stones? the place have a connection with the monument with the nearby
River Avon aligns with the sun on the winter solstice
2. What other events possibly happened at Stonehenge? ancient
pagan sun celebrations might have taken place.
3. What does Steven Waller say about Stonehenge? have been an
ancient concert hall or cathedral.
Wild theories about Stonehenge have persisted since the Middle Ages. Some say
Merlin the wizard may have cast a spell to make the rocks as light as a feather to
help with the construction. UFO enthusiasts believe that ancient aliens could
have built Stonehenge as a spacecraft landing pad.