Stonehenge - Latest dig reveals Roman interference

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Stonehenge - Latest dig reveals Roman interference

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Results from the first excavation at Stonehenge in 44 years has turned-up very little to justify Professors Darvill and Wainwright theory that the site was an ancient hospital (1). Their view, which contrasts with Professor Parker-Pearson's use of Stonehenge as a cemetery, is based on the condition of some Neolithic people buried in the area who suffered from broken and deformed bones, and may have had surgical operations. The excavation yielded some carbonized grains, which will be subjected to radiocarbon dating, and, more importantly perhaps, two Roman coins that appear to be of stratigraphical significance. What this suggests is that the Romans, like English Heritage some two thousand years later, may have been involved in restoration of the site (2). It would certainly excuse the lack of datable evidence uncovered during excavation in the 20th century. These excavations, which cover one half of the area determined by the bank and ditch, yielded only two reliable determinations for construction of the central Sarsen stone feature comprising seventy-five stones. Read more and experience the site in full interactive 3D at http://www.stonehengeobservatory.com.

1. http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/sci/tech/7322134.stm
2. http://www.archaeology.co.uk/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=1606&Itemid=26