In this Content
When we think of Summer solstice, the first thing that would come to anyone’s mind is Stonehenge and the exotic experience that is associated with the place. Thousands of enthusiasts throng the place at every summer solstice.
If you are someone who has heard about summer solstice at Stonehenge and want to know more, here are a few inputs about the Summer solstice and Stonehenge.
Where is Stonehenge?
Stonehenge is located at Wiltshire in England and is one of the great attractions during the summer solstice. The rock formed monument at Stonehenge has been a perfect tourist place and provides you with a great view of the sunrise in Stonehenge.
There are several theories that have been built around Stonehenge. Was it really made for the summer solstice or is it just coincidental that the formation offers a magnificent view of the summer solstice?
Things you should know about the Stonehenge
Stonehenge has several legends surrounding it – right from who constructed it and why was it constructed. It may be worthwhile to learn a little about it.
Who built Stonehenge?
To begin with, was the Stonehenge actually built or it was a natural formation. A close observation reveals that it was actually built by people. Initially, it was thought that there was some sort of spiritual connection with the construction.
However, it was later found that the initial structure was built again by another group. The construction process is evidence enough to prove that they had some sort of knowledge about the astronomical events. They had knowledge of distance calculator that helped them assemble the rocks in the perfect way.
Stonehenge was built in Phases
The place was not built in one single instance. Experts believe that it began in 5000 years ago – somewhere during the Neolithic age. However, it is believed that the Stonehenge as it stands today took around 1000 years to take shape.
Experts also believe that the complete formation should have taken four stages or phases before it was completed. Of course, there is no clear time frame available about the exact construction.
What was it built for?
Was the Stonehenge actually built for summer solstice? While there are proofs enough to indicate that those who constructed the formation had enough knowledge in terms of astronomy. However, no one knows for sure about the exact reason the structure was built for.
The fact that the sun always rises on the Heel stone on the summer solstice and always sets on the Heel stone on the shortest day of the year. This indicates that it may have been used as some sort of calendar. There are a few theories put forward to indicate that it may have been a place for healing. However, during the initial days of its existence – somewhere during 3000 BC, it was a burial site.
The Place was once put up for auction!
Yes, you heard it right. Stonehenge was once put on auction. The Stonehenge was privately owned during the initial days. During 1800, owners were pressurized to sell the site to the government to preserve it. In the 1900s, it was fenced, and visitors were charged an admission fee.
It was put to auction in 1915 when the heir to the owner died during the World War I. Cecil Chubb, the local resident who won the auction donated the structure and the block to the national government in 1918.
The Mystery of stones
While there are several riddles that have been making rounds about the construction of the site at Stonehenge, there have been several other doubts and mysteries about the Stonehenge.
It is also strange to find that the carvings have been carried out even with the lack of the modern tools. Moreover, the bluestones and other stones used in the formation were brought there is indeed a miraculous feat. It is believed that they were brought using sledges and then through the rafts through the river.
Whatever be the methods observed in the construction and the reasons for which it was constructed, it is a great site to visit every during the summer solstice. The fact that more than 20000 people visit it during summer solstice every year should stand proof to the popularity it enjoys.
Make sure you visit it at least once to get into the mood.
