A Mystery of Stonehenge May Finally Have Been Solved, but It Raises New Questions, Researchers Say

Mar. 15, 2025

Stonehenge.Photo:Getty

Getty

A new study challenges the origins ofStonehenge.

In a newstudypublished on Wednesday, Aug. 14, a group of researchers claim that the giant “Altar Stone” of the famed structure in Wiltshire, England, can be traced to northeast Scotland.

The existence of the prehistoric monument has long remained a mystery despite being one of the most popular landmarks in the world. Over the years, several researchers have tried to figure out where it originated, with some speculating that it came from Wales.

However, according to a study published in the scientific journalNature, researchers have suggested that the massive stone at the heart of Stonehenge was actually transported from Scotland, citing similarities between the core stone of the structure and the old red sandstone of Scotland’s Orcadian Basin.

Stonehenge.jessicaphoto/Getty

jessicaphoto/Getty

Reflecting on what the study says about society during the early time period, Clarkes noted that the construction of Stonehenge “seems to be this great British endeavor involving all the different people from all over the island.

However, as the door to one mystery closes, another opens.

“The work prompts two important questions: how was the Altar Stone transported from the very north of Scotland…and, more intriguing, why?” Dr Robert Ixer, from University College London, remarked to the outlet.

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In a separate conversation withNPR, Clarke opened up about his thoughts on journey from Scotland to England in the prehistoric days, saying it wouldn’t have been an easy feat.

“Spare a thought for our Neolithic ancestors, where the heavily forested landscape, rivers, bogs and mountains — it would have been formidable, if not impossible,” he said, adding that people may never uncover the exact details about the epic relocation.

source: people.com