Woodhenge is a prehistoric monument located near Stonehenge in Wiltshire, England. Discovered in 1925, it dates back to around 2300 BC, during the late Neolithic or early Bronze Age. The site consists of six concentric rings of timber posts, which likely supported a roof or formed a freestanding structure. Its purpose remains debated among archaeologists.
Get your dose of History via Email
Layout and Structure
The monument was built using timber posts arranged in a circular layout. These posts were originally set in holes, which have since been filled with concrete markers to indicate their original positions. The rings range from 13 to 43 meters in diameter. The posts varied in size, with the outer rings containing larger posts than the inner rings. This suggests that the structure had a hierarchical or symbolic design.
At the center of Woodhenge lies a small burial. Excavations revealed the remains of a young child, believed to be about three years old at the time of death. The burial, marked by a crouched position, was accompanied by a small stone macehead, possibly a symbol of status or ritual significance.
Purpose and Theories
Scholars have debated the function of Woodhenge for decades. Some argue it was a ceremonial site, while others suggest it had an astronomical or calendrical role. The alignment of the entrance to the northeast, facing the rising sun at midsummer, supports the theory of a connection to solar events. This aligns with nearby Stonehenge, which shares similar solar alignments.
While Woodhenge and Stonehenge are often compared, they served different functions. Stonehenge, constructed primarily of stone, likely had a more permanent and monumental purpose. In contrast, Woodhenge, built with timber, may have been a more temporary or organic structure, used for specific rituals or gatherings.
Excavation and Preservation
Maud Cunnington, a British archaeologist, led the first major excavation at Woodhenge in 1926. She uncovered the postholes, the burial, and several artifacts, including pottery shards. The site’s condition deteriorated over time due to weather and human activity. In 1970, English Heritage took over management of the site to ensure its preservation.
Today, Woodhenge is a protected monument. The concrete posts mark the positions of the original timber structure, giving visitors an understanding of its layout. Although the original posts have long since decayed, the site offers valuable insight into the complex social and ritual practices of Neolithic and Bronze Age Britain.
Relationship to Durrington Walls
Woodhenge lies within a broader archaeological landscape, including the nearby Durrington Walls. Durrington Walls, a large henge and settlement site, was contemporaneous with Woodhenge. Both sites are believed to have played significant roles in the ritual landscape of the time. Some scholars suggest that Woodhenge may have been a ceremonial site connected to the activities at Durrington Walls.
Additionally, both Woodhenge and Durrington Walls were part of the larger Stonehenge landscape. Evidence suggests that people may have traveled between these sites during significant events or festivals, further emphasizing their cultural and ceremonial importance.
Conclusion
Woodhenge remains an important archaeological site for understanding the ritual and ceremonial practices of prehistoric Britain. Its relationship to Stonehenge and Durrington Walls offers valuable insights into the broader social and religious landscape of the time. Though much about its purpose remains debated, ongoing research continues to shed light on this intriguing monument.
Source:
Neural Pathways is a collective of seasoned experts and researchers with a profound passion for unraveling the enigmas of ancient history and artifacts. With a wealth of combined experience spanning decades, Neural Pathways has established itself as a leading voice in the realm of archaeological exploration and interpretation.