Stonehenge for the Ancestors

This volume of Stonehenge for the Ancestors explores archaeological findings and insights from the Stonehenge Riverside Project, enhancing our understanding of this iconic site.

The second of four volumes presenting the findings from The Stonehenge Riverside Project, Stonehenge for the Ancestors delves into the enduring allure of the world's most renowned stone circle. For centuries, scholars and enthusiasts alike have been captivated by Stonehenge, and in 2003, a dedicated team of archaeologists embarked on a long-term fieldwork project to explore its significance. This initiative, spanning from 2003 to 2009, sought to unravel the mysteries surrounding this prehistoric monument by examining it within its broader archaeological context.

In this volume, the authors present a wealth of studies related to the lithics discovered during excavations, which encompass both topsoil sampling and various excavated features. Additionally, the book explores the petrography of the iconic bluestones, drawing insights from chippings collected during the archaeological work. The volume also includes specialist analyses of land mollusca, contributing to a more comprehensive understanding of the environment surrounding Stonehenge.

Stonehenge for the Ancestors offers a panoramic view of Stonehenge within its landscape, tracing its significance from the period before its construction to the completion of its five constructional phases. The concluding chapter situates Stonehenge within the broader context of Britain and western Europe during the third millennium BC, enriching our understanding of this monumental site. Contributions come from a diverse group of experts, including Umberto Albarella, Michael Allen, and Richard Bevins, among others.