The sunrise on Salisbury Plain is a breathtaking sight, particularly when viewed in the context of the ancient monument of Stonehenge, which has been standing for 4 and 1/2 thousand years. This monument is a testament to the ingenuity and resourcefulness of the people who built it, as they carefully placed big stones in special positions to demonstrate the movement of the sun. If one stands in the center of Stonehenge on a summer day, it becomes apparent that the sun rises exactly in line with one of the stones, a phenomenon that is both fascinating and intriguing. The people who constructed Stonehenge utilized simple tools and technology to achieve this feat, and it is now believed that they may have attempted to build something similar before. Not far from Stonehenge, archaeologists have discovered two old holes in the ground, which are 120 meters apart and date back 500 years before the construction of Stonehenge.
The discovery of these holes is a significant find, as it provides insight into the cognitive abilities and behavioral patterns of the people who built them. The holes, which were found in a place called Bulford, now a housing estate for the army, were likely used to support big posts that were between 2 and 4 meters high. Although these posts have rotted away over time, the holes remain, and their alignment with the sun is still evident. The positions of the sun, moon, and stars change very slowly over time, so it is necessary to reconstruct the sky to understand how it appeared 5,000 years ago. By doing so, it becomes clear that the holes are exactly in line with the summer solstice sunrise and the winter solstice sunset. The artifacts found at the site, including an antler and a piece of pottery, have helped to date the discovery and provide a glimpse into the lives of the people who lived there. Furthermore, the discovery of a discoidal knife with a rounded shape may be a reference to the sun, adding another layer of complexity to our understanding of these ancient people.
The discovery of the holes is a remarkable find that offers a unique perspective on the people who lived 5,000 years ago and their reverence for the sun and the seasons. The people who built Stonehenge and the people who lived in Bulford were farmers who relied on their knowledge of the seasons to plant and harvest their crops. The discovery of the holes demonstrates that these people were highly resourceful and able to utilize their knowledge of the sun and the stars to build something truly remarkable. The community that built the holes and Stonehenge was advanced for its time, and their achievements continue to inspire wonder and awe in people today. As we continue to learn more about these ancient people and their culture, we are reminded of the importance of preserving our heritage and honoring the legacy of those who came before us.
