Mesolithic Stonehenge

Introduction

Mesolithic Stonehenge

Using LiDAR to examine Stonehenge reveals a surprising detail: the monument isn’t situated at the highest point in the landscape. Instead, it lies midway down a slope, despite nearby elevated sites like Vespasian Camp, near Blick Mead, where the Open University uncovered Mesolithic fire pits with evidence of cooked meat. This raises an intriguing question: why was Stonehenge built in this seemingly less advantageous location?

LiDAR technology offers a compelling way to answer this. By creating a detailed 3D landscape model, LiDAR highlights terrain features far more effectively than traditional OS maps or on-site surveys, where important details can easily be overlooked. From a virtual vantage point approximately 100 feet above the ground, facing south, it becomes clear that Stonehenge is perched on the edge of what is now a dry valley. However, during the Mesolithic period, this valley was far from dry; it was an active waterway fed by natural springs, which flowed southward into the River Avon. (Mesolithic Stonehenge)

These springs were fueled by a high groundwater table, a feature characteristic of post-Ice Age conditions when meltwater replenished underground aquifers. Springs are categorized by their flow rate, with the most productive reaching up to 2,800 litres per second. Evidence suggests that during the Mesolithic, the “Stonehenge Bottom” valley was home to multiple springs, collectively discharging a significant volume of water into the River Avon. Modern core samples taken while surveying the proposed Stonehenge tunnel have confirmed this. The core data revealed that the water table in this area was significantly higher than previously estimated, forcing the tunnel design to be revised and deepened—at a cost of millions. This finding directly challenges the long-held views of archaeologists who have advised on Stonehenge’s historical groundwater levels, casting doubt on their previous peer-reviewed conclusions. (Mesolithic Stonehenge)

Using LiDAR simulations, we can reconstruct how this water would have shaped the landscape. Archaeological evidence indicates that the water table—and thus the river’s shoreline—was approximately 30 meters higher than today, flooding the valley up to the old Stonehenge car park at 97 meters above sea level. This hypothesis is supported by discoveries made during the construction of the old car park in 1966, where three large post holes were uncovered. These holes cut into the chalk bedrock around 9,000–10,000 years ago and contained silt and sand indicative of a shoreline environment. (Mesolithic Stonehenge)

Radiocarbon dating of pine charcoal from the base of these post holes dates their use to approximately 8,300 BCE. Additionally, more post holes have been discovered in the same area, forming a peculiar alignment. Five such holes have been identified, all dating to the same early Mesolithic period. Intriguingly, these dates align with hearths found at Craig Rhos-y-Felin, the quarry believed to be the source of Stonehenge’s Bluestones. Further supporting this connection is the discovery of hearths at another Bluestone quarry, Carn Goedog, also carbon-dated to approximately 8,400 BCE. These findings strengthen the case for a sophisticated network of activity linking Stonehenge to its quarry sites in Wales. (Mesolithic Stonehenge)

The old car park is located 10 meters lower than Stonehenge, and further dating evidence from charcoal within the Sarsen circle (confirmed by Darvill and Wainwright in 2008) suggests the site was in use as early as 7,200 BCE. This strongly connects the Mesolithic post holes, possibly used as mooring points for boats, to the later development of Stonehenge. The post holes may have supported cross-beams, functioning as primitive yet effective lifting mechanisms. Boats tied to these beams could utilize the natural rise and fall of the river’s tides to lift heavy stones effortlessly. This would mark an early use of hydraulic lifting principles, demonstrating the ingenuity of Mesolithic communities. (Mesolithic Stonehenge)

Despite this compelling evidence, mainstream archaeologists often dismiss the idea of a higher River Avon during the Mesolithic. Instead, they suggest these post holes housed “ceremonial totem poles” erected by random hunter-gatherers. However, this explanation is riddled with logical flaws. The post holes are over a meter wide, implying the use of enormous pine trees, which would have required significant effort to fell with stone tools—an unlikely endeavour for mere ceremonial markers. Furthermore, the poles were periodically replaced over more than a thousand years, suggesting a practical rather than symbolic, purpose. (Mesolithic Stonehenge)

The discovery of modern core samples in the Stonehenge Bottom Valley only adds to the scepticism regarding traditional archaeological interpretations. For decades, experts advising on Mesolithic groundwater levels have underestimated the height of the water table in the region. The recent core sample findings confirm my hypothesis of a higher water table and highlight the limitations of earlier studies. These experts, whose opinions were once considered definitive, now find their conclusions undermined by hard data—data that has already necessitated expensive revisions to modern engineering projects. (Mesolithic Stonehenge)

LiDAR and archaeological evidence together paint a picture of Stonehenge as part of a peninsula surrounded by water in its early days. This watery context may hold the key to understanding why this iconic monument was built where it stands today. The valley would have provided a natural harbour, making it an ideal location for landing heavy stones transported by boat. The site’s proximity to abundant water resources also suggests that it may have held significant practical and symbolic value for the people who built it.

It’s time to reconsider long-held assumptions about Stonehenge. The combination of LiDAR, modern core samples, and radiocarbon dating has provided a richer, more nuanced understanding of its landscape and early history. These findings challenge traditional narratives and open the door to exciting new interpretations about how and why this monumental site was created. (Mesolithic Stonehenge)

The Stonehenge Book

Video

(Mesolithic Stonehenge)

Synopsys

Stonehenge, a timeless enigma etched in stone and earth, has stood as a formidable puzzle challenging the intellects of archaeologists and historians alike. Despite the myriad attempts, including books, TV programs, and academic conferences, the secrets of these ancient stones and their encircling ditches have proven elusive. Against this backdrop, we scrutinise the existing thirteen hypotheses, each presenting its narrative but collectively lacking a coherent thread.

In adopting the deductive reasoning akin to Sherlock Holmes, we endeavour to weave these disparate threads into a unified tapestry that not only unravels the mystery of Stonehenge but also shakes the foundations of established academic narratives. This intellectual journey may induce some discomfort as we challenge conventional perceptions and invite a reevaluation of our understanding of the past. Apologies are extended in advance for any cognitive dissonance, but the pursuit of truth and reason mandates an unfiltered presentation of the facts.So, fasten your seatbelts for an expedition into the archaeological unknown.

As we navigate this intellectual rollercoaster, be prepared for a revelation that might reshape our understanding of Stonehenge and question the foundations of our historical narratives. The dawn of a new archaeological era awaits promising insights that could leave even the most curious minds astonished. As we delve into this intellectual rabbit hole, be ready for a revelation that could make Alice astonished.(Mesolithic Stonehenge)

Robert John Langdon (2023) – (The Stonehenge Hoax)

FREE LiDAR Maps

Here is the perfect resaerch resource for any bidding arcaheologist – 3D LiDAR Maps – there are free and can be downloaded by clicking the Right Site of the Mouse and saving it to your hard Drive for closer inspection, with you PC/Mobile reader software. (Mesolithic Stonehenge)

FREE Stonehenge LiDAR 8K Map

FREE Stonehenge LiDAR water Map

FREE Stonehenge LiDAR 3D Map

Exploring Prehistoric Britain: A Journey Through Time

My blog delves into the fascinating mysteries of prehistoric Britain, challenging conventional narratives and offering fresh perspectives based on cutting-edge research, particularly using LiDAR technology. I invite you to explore some key areas of my research. For example, the Wansdyke, often cited as a defensive structure, is re-examined in light of new evidence. I’ve presented my findings in my blog post Wansdyke: A British Frontier Wall – ‘Debunked’, and a Wansdyke LiDAR Flyover video further visualizes my conclusions.

My work also often challenges established archaeological dogma. I argue that many sites, such as Hambledon Hill, commonly identified as Iron Age hillforts are not what they seem. My posts Lidar Investigation Hambledon Hill – NOT an ‘Iron Age Fort’ and Unmasking the “Iron Age Hillfort” Myth explore these ideas in detail and offer an alternative view. Similarly, sites like Cissbury Ring and White Sheet Camp, also receive a re-evaluation based on LiDAR analysis in my posts Lidar Investigation Cissbury Ring through time and Lidar Investigation White Sheet Camp, revealing fascinating insights into their true purpose. I have also examined South Cadbury Castle, often linked to the mythical Camelot56.

My research also extends to the topic of ancient water management, including the role of canals and other linear earthworks. I have discussed the true origins of Car Dyke in multiple posts including Car Dyke – ABC News PodCast and Lidar Investigation Car Dyke – North Section, suggesting a Mesolithic origin2357. I also explore the misidentification of Roman aqueducts, as seen in my posts on the Great Chesters (Roman) Aqueduct. My research has also been greatly informed by my post-glacial flooding hypothesis which has helped to inform the landscape transformations over time. I have discussed this hypothesis in several posts including AI now supports my Post-Glacial Flooding Hypothesis and Exploring Britain’s Flooded Past: A Personal Journey

Finally, my blog also investigates prehistoric burial practices, as seen in Prehistoric Burial Practices of Britain and explores the mystery of Pillow Mounds, often mistaken for medieval rabbit warrens, but with a potential link to Bronze Age cremation in my posts: Pillow Mounds: A Bronze Age Legacy of Cremation? and The Mystery of Pillow Mounds: Are They Really Medieval Rabbit Warrens?. My research also includes the astronomical insights of ancient sites, for example, in Rediscovering the Winter Solstice: The Original Winter Festival. I also review new information about the construction of Stonehenge in The Stonehenge Enigma.

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Further Reading

For those interested in British Prehistory, visit www.prehistoric-britain.co.uk, a comprehensive resource featuring an extensive collection of archaeology articles, modern LiDAR investigations, and groundbreaking research. The site also includes insights and extracts from the acclaimed Robert John Langdon Trilogy, a series of books exploring Britain during the Prehistoric period. Titles in the trilogy include The Stonehenge Enigma, Dawn of the Lost Civilisation, and The Post Glacial Flooding Hypothesis, offering compelling evidence about ancient landscapes shaped by post-glacial flooding.

To further explore these topics, Robert John Langdon has developed a dedicated YouTube channel featuring over 100 video documentaries and investigations that complement the trilogy. Notable discoveries and studies showcased on the channel include 13 Things that Don’t Make Sense in History and the revelation of Silbury Avenue – The Lost Stone Avenue, a rediscovered prehistoric feature at Avebury, Wiltshire.

In addition to his main works, Langdon has released a series of shorter, accessible publications, ideal for readers delving into specific topics. These include:

• The Ancient Mariners
• Stonehenge Built 8300 BCE
• Old Sarum
• Prehistoric Rivers
• Dykes, Ditches, and Earthworks
• Echoes of Atlantis
• Homo Superior
• 13 Things that Don’t Make Sense in History
• Silbury Avenue – The Lost Stone Avenue
• Offa’s Dyke
• The Stonehenge Enigma
• The Post-Glacial Flooding Hypothesis
• The Stonehenge Hoax
• Dawn of the Lost Civilisation
• Darwin’s Children
• Great Chester’s Roman Aqueduct
• Wansdyke

For active discussions and updates on the trilogy’s findings and recent LiDAR investigations, join our vibrant community on Facebook. Engage with like-minded enthusiasts by leaving a message or contributing to debates in our Facebook Group.

Whether through the books, the website, or interactive videos, we aim to provide a deeper understanding of Britain’s fascinating prehistoric past. We encourage you to explore these resources and uncover the mysteries of ancient landscapes through the lens of modern archaeology.

For more information, including chapter extracts and related publications, visit the Robert John Langdon Author Page. Dive into works such as The Stonehenge Enigma or Dawn of the Lost Civilisation, and explore cutting-edge theories that challenge traditional historical narratives.

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