Prehistoric carvings dating from the Bronze Age have been found at Stonehenge, adding to the intrigue surrounding this mysterious, ancient monument.
Weathering over the ages means the
carvings are no longer visible to the naked eye – and this “invisible art” only
came to light during a laser-scan survey of the surfaces of the stones. Results of the survey, carried out on
behalf of English Heritage, which runs the site, showed that most of the images
had been engraved a few millimetres into the surface of the rock.
Data analysis revealed 71 new images of
Bronze Age axe-heads, and one image of a Bronze Age dagger. Some images of axe heads had previously
been reported in the 1950s, but the 72 new
discoveries make this the largest single collection of prehistoric rock
carvings in southern Britain.
It’s thought that when Stonehenge was constructed
in the third millennium BC, its main purpose was as a solar temple, marking the
winter and summer solstices. It was probably used for ritual ceremonies and
worship.
A large number of tombs dating from
1800-1500BC have been found in the area, underlining the importance of the site
during this era. The carved axe-heads and daggers also date from this period, and
may provide further clues to the purpose of the site.
Stonehenge is open to the public all year round apart from Christmas Eve and
Christmas Day. www.english-heritage.org.uk/daysout/properties/stonehenge/
