Stonehenge’s Welsh Connection: New Evidence from Cremated Remains
Background
Stonehenge is a world-renowned prehistoric monument known for its towering stone circle. However, lesser known is its early function as a cemetery. Thousands of years after the first burials, researchers have discovered that many of the individuals interred at Stonehenge originated from Wales, a neighboring region believed to have provided the site’s distinctive bluestones.
The Study
A recent study published in Scientific Reports analyzed the cremated remains of 25 individuals buried at Stonehenge. The researchers used strontium isotope analysis, a technique that reveals a person’s place of origin, to determine that 10 of these individuals likely came from western Wales.
The Welsh Connection
The study’s findings suggest that the Welsh played a significant role in the construction of Stonehenge. The dates of the cremated remains coincide with the estimated time period of the monument’s early construction. The researchers speculate that these individuals may have traveled to Stonehenge with the bluestones or assisted in their construction.
Strontium Isotope Analysis
Strontium isotope analysis relies on the study of strontium, a heavy metal that leaves a unique signature in geological formations and soil. By comparing the strontium found in bone fragments with a profile of strontium isotope ratios across a given geographic area, scientists can determine a person’s place of origin.
Historical Context
In 1920s excavations, archaeologists discovered 58 Neolithic-era individuals buried in Aubrey holes, pits named after the 17th-century antiquarian who initially identified them. These cremated remains were later re-excavated in 2008 and identified as 25 separate sets of remains.
Transportation of Remains
It is unclear whether the Welsh cremated their dead near Stonehenge or closer to home. However, some of the remains were found in leather bags, suggesting they were transported from a distant location, possibly by those bringing bluestones to the site.
Global Implications
The study’s findings highlight the importance of studying cremated remains, which have often been overlooked in archaeological research. Researcher Christophe Snoeck plans to continue studying cremated remains found worldwide, shedding light on ancient human mobility and burial practices.
Additional Long-Tail Keywords:
- Neolithic-era burials at Stonehenge
- Archaeological significance of cremated remains
- Role of strontium isotope analysis in archaeological research
- Global distribution of cremated remains
- Future research directions in cremated remains analysis
