Stonehenge Altar Stone Origins
Scientists discovered that the altar stone at Stonehenge likely originated in present-day Scotland, over 450 miles away. This finding raises questions about Neolithic society's ability to transport heavy stones long distances using simple tools and suggests a more interconnected culture in the British Isles than previously thought.
Key Points
- Altar stone likely originated in present-day Scotland, over 450 miles from Stonehenge
- Neolithic people moved the 6.5-ton rock long before the invention of spoked wheels
- Stone's age fingerprint links it to northeast Scotland's Orcadian basin
- Researchers suspect the stone was transported by boat due to challenging terrain
- Discovery suggests a more interconnected Neolithic culture in the British Isles
Pros
- Discovery sheds light on the ancient monument's origins and construction methods
- Raises questions about Neolithic society's capabilities and social structures
Cons
- The exact reason for transporting the altar stone remains unknown