Question

Stonehenge is a famous site known for its large circles of massive stones in a seemingly random location as well as the mystery surrounding how and why it was built. The stones are believed to be from local quarries and farther off mountains. There is also evidence of mud, wood, and ropes assisting in the construction of the site. What is Stonehenge?

1) A burial site
2) A religious monument
3) A fortress
4) A marketplace

Answer 1

Stonehenge is a prehistoric monument in England dating from 3000 to 2000 BCE, used as an astronomical observatory to mark solstices and lunar events. It indicates complex Neolithic construction and societal organization, and while it has attributes of a cultural or religious monument, its exact original purpose remains unknown.

Step-by-step explanation:

Stonehenge is an ancient and enigmatic structure located in Wiltshire, England, built between 3000 BCE and 2000 BCE. Its construction began with an earthwork enclosure, and it evolved into a complex arrangement of stones that were quarried and transported using rudimentary tools.

While its exact purpose remains somewhat of a mystery, the architectural design indicates that Stonehenge was likely used as an astronomical observatory for tracking the motions of the Sun and Moon, particularly during the solstices. Stonehenge aligns with key celestial events and is not consistent with features of fortresses, markets, or typical residential sites.

As a prehistoric monument, it is believed to have served as a cultural or religious site for the Neolithic peoples who constructed it.