Lasers reveal invisible Stonehenge carvings: New Scientist

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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers around the recent findings from laser scanning at Stonehenge, which revealed previously invisible carvings on the stones. Participants explore the implications of these findings regarding the monument's historical functions and significance.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Debate/contested
  • Conceptual clarification

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants suggest that the carvings could indicate that Stonehenge served as a memorial for the dead at the time they were made.
  • Others propose that the site likely had multiple functions over the ages, speculating that future archaeologists might interpret it as a tourist attraction.
  • A participant inquires about the definition of a "henge," prompting a clarification of the term as a prehistoric circular area with standing stones.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

There is no consensus on the specific functions of Stonehenge; multiple competing views regarding its historical significance and purpose remain present in the discussion.

Contextual Notes

The discussion reflects varying interpretations of archaeological findings and the potential for evolving understandings of historical sites over time.

Ivan Seeking
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Laser scanning has revealed ancient carvings on the pillars of Stonehenge that are invisible to the naked eye.

The experiment scanned just part of three of the 83 stones that make up the famous prehistoric monument in Wiltshire, UK. The archaeologists, from the Wessex Archaeology and Archaeoptics companies, hope a full survey could provide compelling evidence that Stonehenge was a memorial for the dead, at least at the time the carvings were made.

http://www.newscientist.com/news/news.jsp?id=ns99994288
 
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thus ends the mystery
 
Originally posted by Mattius_
thus ends the mystery

at the time the carvings were made

This site likely had many functions over the ages. In a few thousand years archeologists may think it was built as a tourist attraction.:wink:
 
Last edited:
What's a henge?
 
Originally posted by zoobyshoe
What's a henge?

henge [ henj ] (plural heng·es)

noun

prehistoric circle with standing stones: a prehistoric oval or circular area, often bounded by a mound or ditch, that contains standing stones or wooden pillars that were erected during the Neolithic or Bronze Age
 

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