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Mystery Origin of Iconic Stonehenge Altar Stone Deepens as Search Narrows
Researchers said museum fragments and field tests failed to match the stone, narrowing the search for its origin but leaving the source unresolved.
- A new study in the Journal of the Geological Society has ruled out the Orcadian Basin in Scotland as the source of the Altar Stone at Stonehenge, challenging previous theories about the monument's origins.
- For almost a century, the prevailing view was that the 4.9-metre sandstone slab originated in west Wales, though a 2024 study pointed toward Scotland instead. Professor Richard Bevins of Aberystwyth University noted that refining these geological searches is critical.
- Professor Duncan Pirrie of the University of South Wales led the investigation using detailed "geological fingerprinting" to examine mineral composition. Pirrie stated the publication has "built the clearest picture yet" of the stone's complex geological characteristics.
- Ruling out potential sources is essential for future efforts, according to Professor Nick Pearce of Aberystwyth University. Researchers increasingly support the theory that Neolithic builders deliberately moved the stones rather than relying on ancient glaciers.
- With each eliminated location, scientists move closer to discovering the Altar Stone's true origin at Stonehenge. Refined geological data allows future investigations to be targeted more effectively, potentially resolving one of archaeology's enduring puzzles.
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12 Articles
12 Articles
Scientists have rejected the main version of the origin of the Stonehenge altar stone New analyses have shown that the Stonehenge altar stone probably did not come from north-east Scotland<p>. Searching for the source continue.</p>
·Kyiv, Ukraine
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Mystery origin of iconic Stonehenge Altar Stone deepens as search narrows
The hunt for the source of Stonehenge's mysterious Altar Stone has entered a new phase after scientists ruled out several previously proposed locations and moved a step closer to identifying its origins.
·Douglas, United Kingdom
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Researchers thought they discovered the origin of the Stonehenge Altar Stone. A new study just overturned their theory.
Coverage Details
Total News Sources12
Leaning Left3Leaning Right0Center4Last UpdatedBias Distribution57% Center
Bias Distribution
- 57% of the sources are Center
57% Center
L 43%
C 57%
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