New Study Reveals Neolithic Humans Moved Stonehenge's Altar Stone from Scotland
Neolithic Humans, Not Glaciers, Likely Transported Stonehenge’s Altar Stone Over 400 Miles

Image: Discover Magazine
Recent research indicates that the Altar Stone of Stonehenge, weighing 6 tonnes, was transported by Neolithic humans over 434 miles from Scotland to England, rather than being moved by glaciers. This involved careful planning and teamwork, showcasing the capabilities of ancient societies.
- 01The Altar Stone was moved from northeast Scotland to Stonehenge in England, contradicting previous beliefs about glacial transport.
- 02Researchers at Curtin University used ice-sheet modeling and mineral grain dating to determine the stone's origins and transport methods.
- 03The study suggests that Neolithic humans moved the stone in stages, utilizing various landscapes and waterways.
- 04Transporting the stone required significant logistical planning and coordination, indicating a complex societal structure.
- 05Future research aims to identify the exact source of the Altar Stone in Scotland and further explore transport methods.
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A recent study published in the Journal of Quaternary Science has provided new insights into the transportation of Stonehenge's Altar Stone, which weighs 6 tonnes and was moved over 434 miles from Scotland to England. Contrary to earlier theories that glaciers facilitated this movement, researchers from Curtin University found that Neolithic humans were responsible for transporting the stone. Their analysis combined ice-sheet modeling and mineral grain dating, revealing that while glaciers may have transported rocks partway, they did not carry the stone into southern England. The study suggests that the stone was likely moved in stages, utilizing both overland and waterway routes, requiring meticulous planning and teamwork. This discovery highlights the advanced capabilities of Neolithic societies in coordinating large-scale projects. The research team aims to further investigate the stone's exact origin and the methods used for its transport.
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