When European history is discussed, it is often centered on empires and the Age of Discovery. English and European history stretches far before the empires of the second millennium, and the prime example of this time is Stonehenge, the pre-historic monument located in Wiltshire, England.
Stonehenge is what remains from a set of standing stones, with radiocarbon dating suggesting they were erected between 2400 and 2200 BC. The site is located in a complex filled with monuments and burial mounds from the Neolithic and Bronze Age. The people that built the monument left behind no records, making the function and construction an unsolved mystery.
There are a number of hypotheses about what Stonehenge was used for. Two leading theories suggest the site was either a healing site or used for funerals. There are a high number of burial mounds around the area, and remains have been uncovered on the site. Isotope analysis revealed remains coming from all over Europe, many of them with trauma disfigurement, leading some to theorize that the site was believed to have healing properties.
The healing hypotheses tie into theories surrounding the site’s use of bluestones. The term is a catchall for stone that is foreign to the area. Stonehenge is known for having interesting acoustics, with some of the stones giving off a ringing sound when struck. Some ancient cultures believed rocks with such musical properties had mystical powers, explaining why some of these bluestones were transported from almost 200 miles away.
Other theories suggest the site was a sort of calendar, with features designed to predict celestial events like the equinox, which might have been central to the religions at the time. Others believe Stonehenge was more ritual in nature, due to the fact that at the time of construction, the Neolithic people of England were experiencing a cultural unification.
Stonehenge is now owned by the Crown and is managed by English Heritage. Due to erosion, visitors are no longer permitted to touch or walk amongst the stones. English Heritage does allow access for private bookings, as well as special events held during the summer and winter solstice, and the spring and fall equinox. To learn more about visiting Stonehenge, visit the site’s portal on English-Heritage.com.
Read This Next
Museum of the History of Polish Jews Opens
History
Nov 9, 2014#TrazeeTravel
Insta FeedDestinations / North America
Oct 22, 2026Stay in This Restored 1920s School Campus
In Fayetteville, West Virginia, you can now stay in what was once the town’s high school and middle school, thanks to the opening of Hill Hall Hotel. The 40-guestroom boutique property stretches out over the 1923 high school and Mid-Century middle school buildings, retaining some of the original architecture and layout, while updating amenities to meet modern travelers’ needs.
Sponsored Content
12 Reasons to Visit Gozo, Malta’s Slower Sister Island
Gozo may be small in size, but Malta’s charming sister island offers a unique blend of natural beauty, deep-rooted history, rich culture and adventure. Gozo offers unforgettable experiences for every type of traveler. From picturesque villages and cliffside views to ancient temples and festive celebrations, the island invites visitors to slow down and savor the true Mediterranean lifestyle.
6 Skincare Mistakes to Avoid Before and After a Flight This Winter
An airplane’s cabin is already dry, but add in the winter climate and your skin practically begs for help. This season, keep skin healthy and moisturized by avoiding these six common mistakes when traveling:
Destinations / Europe
Oct 21, 2026Ease Into Autumn with Anantara’s European Wellness Retreats
Anantara Hotels & Resorts welcomes travelers to an autumnal escape with a collection of wellness experiences across its European properties. From hot mindful yoga and meditation to signature treatments like a Monoi Oil Body Wrap, these immersive retreats let guests unwind and rejuvenate as the seasons fade into one another.
Sponsored Content
Extraordinary Moments, Made to Keep
The Excellence Collection offers a curated collection of luxurious resorts across Mexico and the Caribbean, promising exceptional experiences for every guest and taste. From upscale suite concepts to a plethora of gourmet dining options, from wellness experiences to curated activities, The Excellence Collection guarantees all this and more.
Surveys
Oct 21, 2026Business Travel Bigger Than Ever, According to New Hotels.com Study
While just a few years ago, the travel industry may’ve been worried about business travel returning to its pre-pandemic numbers, according to a new Hotels.com study, that worry is no more. Business travel is back — and even more, it’s busier than ever for some travelers.
ShareThis