Avebury
Avebury is a Neolithic henge monument containing three stone circles, located around the village of Avebury in Wiltshire, England. Here are some key details about this remarkable site:
History and Archaeology
- Construction: The henge and stone circles were constructed over several centuries from around 2850 BC to 2200 BC. It is one of the largest and most complex stone circles in Britain.
- Design: The site includes a large circular bank and ditch (henge) with an outer circle of standing stones, originally comprising about 98 stones. Inside this, there are two smaller circles.
- Significance: The exact purpose of Avebury remains a subject of debate among archaeologists, but it is thought to have had ceremonial, religious, or ritualistic uses. It might have been a place for community gatherings or significant cultural events.
- Excavation and Preservation: The site was first described in historical records by John Aubrey in the 17th century. Major excavations were undertaken by Alexander Keiller in the 1930s, who also bought much of the land to preserve it.
Features of Avebury
- The Henge: The earthwork at Avebury consists of a bank and an internal ditch with four entrances, aligned with the cardinal points. The ditch, originally around 9 meters deep, was dug with antler picks.
- The Stones: Many of the original sarsen stones (a type of silicified sandstone) were either broken up or buried due to local superstition or Christian opposition in later centuries. Today, several stones have been re-erected, but many remain missing.
- Associated Monuments: Avebury is part of a larger prehistoric landscape that includes Silbury Hill, the West Kennet Long Barrow, and the Avebury Manor.
Modern Use and Preservation
- Protection: Avebury was designated a World Heritage Site in 1986, along with Stonehenge, due to its historical and cultural significance.
- Visitor Access: The site is managed by the National Trust, which ensures public access while protecting the monument. Visitors can walk among the stones, visit the museum, and explore the surrounding landscape.
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