The mystical Stonehenge

As a kid, I have often been mesmerized by this structure, staring at me from the  computer screen. So, it was only natural that I visit this mystical site which is just an hour from my home in Hampshire. This prehistoric monument, located between the countryside of Wiltshire and plains of Salisbury is one of the most iconic structures of present times. Believed to be the centre of Neolithic and Bronze Age monuments; it is certainly a destination for the curious wanderer and history lovers. From the rubbles of the plains, you will notice a circular structure where bluish rocks stand rather tall breaking the harmony of the green plains but lending it more charm. Welcome, to the enigmatic Stonehenge. 

 

As you go closer, the site draws some serious awe. True history aficionados would love this place. The first stones were erected way back between 3000BC to 2000BC. Completed and restored in many phases from then on; today the structure is listed among the World Heritage Sites. The rocks are said to be Bluestone and Sarsen. Folklore and legend abound this place. Some called it the one of the most ancient burial grounds; for some it was the place of worship while some termed it as healing rocks. The rocks were once called Giant’s Dance and were believed to be brought from Africa and Ireland for its healing properties. It is also believed to be a site where followers of Neopaganism practiced religious rituals in the twentieth century. Whatever be the belief, no one really can tell how the rocks appeared here in the first place. There are also rumours of UFO sightings here!

 

Just outside the main entrance to the Stonehenge is the Heel Stone or Friar’s heel; a rough, giant stone which leans towards the ground. An interesting folk take around this stone is that the devil brought many stones from a woman in Ireland. While he was a carrying around the place, he stated that no one will find how these rocks came. A Friar then audaciously challenged him and said only he thinks so. The devil in his fury threw one of the stones which struck the friar in his heel giving birth to the Heel stone.  

 

Despite these interesting stories, many feel the entire place to a bit of a dampener. Why? Because there is nothing else here but an explanation would be that it is a sensitive area, an area which is still researched time and again for Neolithic and Bronze Age cultures. Hence, it should stay away from “development” as much as possible. While some call the place rocks randomly scattered I cannot help but wonder if we ever made a similar structure in today’s modern age will it able to stand the test of time?