The world of Stonehenge

Stonehenge is a highly recommended book that explores the communities and civilizations active at the time of its construction and beyond, between 4,000 and 1,000 BCE. Recent archaeological findings have reignited interest in the monument, and authors Duncan Garrow and Neil Wilkin examine the dramatic cultural and societal shifts that characterized the world of Stonehenge. The publication traces the appearance of the first monuments in Britain around 4,000 BCE, the arrival of the bluestones from the Preseli Hills in Pembrokeshire 1,000 years later, and the development of cross-Channel connectivity and trade between 1,500 and 800 BCE. A new study of the enigmatic and beautiful objects made and circulated during the age of Stonehenge charts connections in the shared religious practices and beliefs of communities from across Britain, Ireland, and continental Europe. The significance of the cosmos and the heavens expressed through the construction of stone circles and megalithic passage tombs began to wane around 2,500 BCE, and portable objects gained increasing importance. Monuments such as Stonehenge cannot be understood in isolation, as they were adapted and added to by communities that changed and developed the landscape on which they still stand today.

Format: Hardback
Length: 272 pages
Publication date: 17 February 2022
Publisher: British Museum Press

Stonehenge, one of the world's most famous yet misunderstood monuments, has a rich history that spans thousands of years. Contrary to popular belief, it was not a static structure built by mysterious figures or druids. Rather, it represents the cumulative achievement of numerous generations who were woven into a complex and widespread network of cultural interactions, environmental change, and belief systems. This publication, accompanying the first exhibition about Stonehenge ever staged in London, serves as a gateway to explore the communities and civilizations active at the time of its construction and beyond, between 4,000 and 1,000 BCE.

Recent archaeological findings regarding the origin of Stonehenge's striking "bluestones" have reignited interest in this ancient wonder, the people who built it, and the beliefs they held. Authors Duncan Garrow and Neil Wilkin examine the dramatic cultural and societal shifts that characterized the world of Stonehenge, including the introduction of farming and the development of metalworking.

Spanning a period of thousands of years, the publication traces the appearance of the first monuments in the landscape of Britain around 4,000 BCE, the arrival of the bluestones from the Preseli Hills in Pembrokeshire 1,000 years later, and the remarkable era of cross-Channel connectivity and trade between 1,500 and 800 BCE.

Through a new study of the enigmatic and beautiful objects made and used at Stonehenge, the authors shed light on the beliefs, practices, and technologies of the people who built this iconic structure. The book features stunning photographs of objects, including the bluestones, stone tools, and personal belongings, providing a visual glimpse into the world of Stonehenge.

This publication is a valuable resource for anyone interested in ancient history, archaeology, or cultural heritage. It offers a comprehensive and insightful exploration of Stonehenge and its place in the broader context of ancient Britain and Europe. Highly recommended for anyone with an interest in these subjects, this book will deepen your understanding and appreciation of this remarkable monument.

Weight: 1812g
Dimension: 352 x 294 x 31 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780714123493