Stonehenge: An Iconic Prehistoric Monument

Stonehenge FAQs states about the history of the astounding marvel, which is fascinating as this prehistoric monument of a stone circle is over 5000 years old. It was built around 2500 BC to honour and show the transition between the Neolithic period and the Bronze Age. A historic archaeological site in Salisbury Plain, Stonehenge purpose is still a mystery. Most evidence suggests it is a cemetery and burial ground for royals, while a few suggest it is historically known for being a religious pilgrimage site. It is also older than the Roman empires and the great pyramids, with over 80 stones originally and currently only 52 remaining.

Stonehenge's largest stone, the heel stone, might be the very first component to be built. However, studies also suggest that the first major construction here was the circular ditch built around 3000 BC. Currently, it is one of the most fascinating historic attractions for people around the globe. Every year, hundreds of tourists come here to witness this marvellous piece of architecture, especially during the summer and winter solstices. Taking over 1000 years to build in four long stages, watching the sunset or sunrise here is a unique experience.

FAQs

Do we need to book in advance for Stonehenge tickets?

Yes, you should book Stonehenge tickets in advance because buying them on site is a bit expensive. Online tickets offer you discounts while ensuring you don’t have to wait in line. Moreover, booking tickets in advance ensures you get tickets for a time slot convenient for you. Additionally, buying tickets for this prehistoric monument in advance allows you to enter on a priority basis and stress-free. Read through the Stonehenge FAQs to know how to be part of National Trust & English Heritage to visit the monument for free.

Why is Stonehenge so famous?

A famous stone circle in Great Britain, Stonehenge FAQs offers insight into its popularity. It is a sophisticated piece of architecture and the only surviving lintelled stone circle globally.The circle even after renovations is still there, which attracts tonnes of people every year. Historians agree that the earliest stage of this monument was one of the biggest cremation cemeteries in Neolithic Britain. It is also famous for being an astronomical calendar that uses Stonehenge solstice to tell the time of the year.

Can I choose my preferred time slot when booking Stonehenge tickets?

Visiting this astounding monument is easier if you book tickets online, which gives you access to book a time slot you prefer. Tickets on admission don’t offer this option as there is limited availability and you might have to wait for hours to get inside. Also, if you book tickets online (up to three hours in advance), you get discounts.

Do we have to buy separate Stonehenge tickets for kids?

Yes, buying separate tickets for kids older than 5 years of age is mandatory to visit Stonehenge. Get to know more about the pricing of Stonehenge by going through Stonehenge FAQs. The prices are divided by seasons, for instance, it's £ 12.70 (off-peak), £ 14.50 (standard), and £ 16.30 (peak).These are the prices if you book tickets online, if you buy them at the gate, they increase by two pounds. You can also buy family tickets, which include two adults and up to three children.

What is the best time to visit Stonehenge?

Early morning, after it opens, or late evening (two hours before its closing time), are the best times to visit Stonehenge. Often, tour buses start arriving at the destination at 10 a.m., so it is best to reach there before exploring the monument in peace. It is best to avoid weekends, as they are packed with tourists and locals. The best seasons to visit Stonehenge are autumn and spring when the weather is pleasant and sunny.

Read More: Stonehenge Visitor Centre

How old is Stonehenge?

Stonehenge is 5000 years old as per most Historians theories. Reading through the FAQs of Stonehenge, it comes to light that Stonehenge is older than the Great Pyramids and Roman Empire. It was built between 3000 and 1520 BC in six stages when the transition from the Neolithic period to the Bronze Age was happening.

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What are the operating hours of Stonehenge?

Stonehenge's opening hours differ according to the season; during the off-season, the timings are from 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. (January to March, November to December). When the shoulder season begins, timings are 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. (April, May, September, and October). However, during the peak season, the timing is 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. (June to August) which is perfect for catching a sunset.

What happens at Stonehenge on the summer solstice?

The summer solstice occurs on June 21 and is the longest day of the year with the shortest night. Historians believe that Stonehenge was built by people to align with the sun on both the summer and winter solstices. Every year, on the summer solstice, believers and non-believers come here to watch and celebrate this phenomenon.

What happens at Stonehenge on the winter solstice?

The winter solstice is the shortest day of the year, falling on 22nd December. On this day, the sun sets on the south-west of Stonehenge's stone circle. It also hosts a popular festival to celebrate the winter solstice and to enjoy the rare experience of witnessing the beautiful sunset.

What is Stonehenge made of?

Reading through the FAQs of Stonehenge, it is clear that Stonehenge was built using two types of stones. The smaller stones are the bluestones, which came from Preseli Hills, South Wales. The bigger stones, known as sarsens, are from Marlborough Downs and weigh over 30 tonnes. The process of building Stonehenge using these stones was cutting the stones firstly. The next step was transporting the stones, requiring massive human effort. After that, the workers shaped the stones using flint and Sarsen hammerstones and lastly, they fitted the stones.

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What is the history of Stonehenge?

The prehistoric monument is a megalithic circle built over 5000 years ago by ancient Britons. The people behind the building of the monument are still a mystery, with many believing it to be Romans or Merlin, from the Arthurian legend. From its earliest period of conception, the belief is that it was used as a burial ground. However, the history of Stonehenge suggests that its construction lasted at least 1,000 years in several phases.

How far is Stonehenge from London?

Stonehenge is 84 miles away from London, and the time duration to reach the attraction depends on your mode of transportation. You can go from London to Stonehenge by the following modes:

By car: You can rent a car to drive from London to Stonehenge; it will take around two hours to reach there with minimal traffic.

By bus: From Victoria Coach Station, take a bus to Salisbury (2 hours plus); from there, you can take a taxi or another bus to reach Stonehenge within minutes. There are no direct buses from London to Stonehenge, unless you opt for organised tour buses.

By Train: There are no direct trains but you can hop on a train from London Waterloo to Salisbury train station. From there, a shuttle bus or taxi is available to go to the site.

Who built Stonehenge?

It is a mystery, as no one knows or can say for certain who built Stonehenge. Though the theories are fascinating, one theory suggests Stonehenge was built by Merlin, the wizard from the Arthurian legend. Reading more FAQs of Stonehenge enlights you about other theories, like they were ruins from a Roman temple.

What was Stonehenge used for?

One of the most fascinating Stonehenge faqs is what this monument was used for. There are many theories, but most historians agree that Stonehenge was used as a burial place for most of its history. However, others believe it has other functions, like being a ceremonial site, the royal family’s final resting place and a religious pilgrimage site. Additionally, a few also believe it to be a memorial erected to honour distant ancestors and spiritually connect with them.

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