Mysteries of the Devil's Arrows Unraveled: Ancient Builders Transported Stones from 18km Away

Recent archaeological findings have shed light on the construction of Britain's renowned Devil's Arrows, revealing that prehistoric builders transported massive 25-tonne stones from a distance of at least 18 kilometers. Located near Boroughbridge in northern England, this iconic stone row stands as the tallest surviving prehistoric structure in the UK, reaching heights of 7 meters.

New Insights Challenge Previous Theories

Traditionally, it was believed that the stones used in the Devil's Arrows were sourced from the nearby Plumpton Rocks. However, a study published in the Proceedings of the Royal Society A presents a compelling argument that the stones were actually taken from Brimham Rocks, which lies significantly farther away. Dr. Anthony Clarke, a geochemist and co-author of the study, emphasized that the builders consciously chose these stones from a challenging landscape, rather than opting for a more convenient source.

Significance of the Stone Selection

These findings suggest that the selection of stones held deeper significance for the ancient builders. Jim Leary, another author of the study from the University of York, noted that this choice reflects the builders' connection to the landscape and shared belief systems. The meticulous effort involved in transporting and erecting such massive stones indicates a high level of planning and engineering expertise. The researchers utilized adhesive tape to collect microscopic mineral grains from the stones, enabling them to identify their origin without causing damage.

By ruling out natural processes like glacial movement, the study underscores the intentionality behind the arrangement of the stones, highlighting the remarkable capabilities of prehistoric communities. Looking ahead, the researchers plan to apply their methods to other megalithic structures to further unravel the mysteries of their origins and construction.

Source: www.independent.co.uk