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Neolithic ring of shafts uncovered - 29th June 2020
A ring of deep pits has been discovered near the historical site of Stonehenge. Astonished archaeologists are describing it as the biggest prehistoric structure ever found in Britain.
During the early Bronze Age four and a half thousand years ago, circles built from stone or wood played an important part in religious life. Stonehenge, in Wiltshire, England, is the best surviving example as many of the stones are still standing. A marvel of prehistoric engineering built with primitive construction tools, it allows us a glimpse into the Neolithic past.
Now, archaeologists have uncovered a two-kilometre-wide ring of deep holes near the site. Experts believe these holes, which surround another ancient stone circle, Durrington Walls, may have been intended to guide people into the sacred area.
Each shaft is 5 metres deep and more than 10 metres wide. They were discovered by academics from different universities using remote sensing technology.
The land surrounding Stonehenge is amongst the most archaeologically studied places in the world so it is very unusual this discovery has not been made until now. Having naturally been filled over thousands of years, the shafts were initially considered sinkholes, but new technology has revealed their significance.
Experts say the discovery gives insight to a more complex society than previously considered. Now further excavation will be carried out to try to determine the true purpose of the pits.
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