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Stonehenge

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Cultural Heritage England UK Cultural Mystery Megalith Ancient Ritual Prehistoric

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description Stonehenge Overview

Stonehenge is an ancient stone circle located in Wiltshire, England. Constructed during the Neolithic and Bronze Ages, it comprises massive sarsen and bluestone megaliths arranged in a complex pattern. Its precise purpose remains unknown, fueling ongoing research into prehistoric ritual practices and astronomical alignments. The monument is of significant cultural heritage value and is primarily studied by archaeologists, historians, and those interested in ancient Britain’s mysteries.

help Stonehenge FAQ

How old is Stonehenge?

The earliest earthwork phase dates to around 3000 BCE, with the iconic sarsen stone circle erected around 2500 BCE during the late Neolithic. That makes the monument roughly 4,500 years old, with use continuing into the Bronze Age.

Where did the Stonehenge stones come from?

The huge sarsens were transported around 20 miles from the Marlborough Downs in Wiltshire. The smaller bluestones travelled far further, roughly 150 miles from the Preseli Hills in Pembrokeshire, southwest Wales.

Can you walk right up to the stones at Stonehenge?

Normal visitors view the circle from a roped path a short distance away, and timed tickets are required. However, English Heritage offers bookable early-morning or evening 'Stone Circle Access' experiences, and the site is famously open to visitors during the summer solstice.

Who manages Stonehenge and is it a UNESCO site?

The monument is managed by English Heritage within the 'Stonehenge, Avebury and Associated Sites' UNESCO World Heritage Site, inscribed in 1986. Much of the surrounding landscape is owned by the National Trust.

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