How Many Stones Are Missing From Stonehenge?
Of the original 30 massive sarsens that formed the iconic Stonehenge circle around 3000 BC, only 17 remain standing today, leaving a staggering 13 stones unaccounted for. Over the centuries, many of these stones have vanished, with some removed by medieval builders, lost to natural erosion, or destroyed by human activities. Theories abound about their whereabouts, from being buried for safekeeping to being used as building materials for other structures. Despite the mystery, one thing is clear: the missing stones have left a lasting impact on the monument's integrity. The story behind their disappearance remains to be uncovered.
The Original Stone Circle
Around 3000 BC, the first stones of Stonehenge were erected, consisting of 30 massive sarsens, weighing up to 50 tons each, arranged in a circular pattern that would become the iconic foundation of the prehistoric monument. These towering stones, some reaching 30 feet in height, formed the outer circle, with the largest stones placed at the north and south entrances. The sheer scale and precision of the construction are a demonstration of the ingenuity and skill of the Neolithic builders. As the original stone circle took shape, it would have been an awe-inspiring sight, marking the beginning of a monumental structure that would stand the proof of time.
Stones Lost to Time
Time has exacted a toll on Stonehenge's original grandeur, with many of its stones vanishing over the centuries, leaving behind only cryptic clues to their fate. The monument's earliest records, dating back to the 12th century, suggest that the circle was once complete, but by the 16th century, several stones were already missing. Archaeologists believe that some of these stones may have been removed by medieval builders, who repurposed them for local construction projects. Others may have been lost to natural erosion, as the surrounding landscape has undergone significant changes over the centuries. Despite these losses, Stonehenge remains an enigmatic and awe-inspiring wonder, its secrets slowly unraveling as researchers continue to study its ancient stones.
Damage and Destruction
Numerous incidents of vandalism, treasure hunting, and military exercises have scarred Stonehenge's fabric over the centuries, leaving behind a trail of destruction and damage. In the 17th and 18th centuries, treasure hunters dug into the earth, searching for hidden riches, causing irreparable harm to the site. During World War I, military vehicles and equipment damaged the surrounding landscape. In the 1950s and 1960s, vandals defaced the stones with graffiti, further compromising the monument's integrity. These acts of destruction have resulted in the loss of valuable archaeological evidence and have contributed to the disappearance of stones from the original circle. The cumulative effect of these incidents has left Stonehenge bearing the scars of human neglect and disrespect.
Removed for Other Purposes
Stonehenge's stones have also been removed for construction and landscaping projects, a practice that has further depleted the original circle and compromised its structural integrity. Many of these stones were taken to build roads, bridges, and even other monumental structures. For instance, several stones were used in the construction of Salisbury Cathedral in the 13th century. Additionally, stones were removed to create decorative features in local gardens and estates. This widespread removal of stones has not only reduced the number of original stones but also disrupted the monument's original layout and balance. As a result, the site's authenticity and historical significance have been irreparably altered.
Theories on Their Whereabouts
Archaeologists and historians have proposed various theories to explain the whereabouts of the missing stones, with some speculating that they may have been buried or hidden for safekeeping during times of war or civil unrest. Another theory suggests that the stones were used as building materials for other structures in the area, such as Salisbury Cathedral. Some believe that the stones may have been destroyed or dismantled during the medieval period, while others propose that they were removed by treasure hunters or collectors. Despite these theories, the exact fate of the missing stones remains a mystery, and their whereabouts continue to be a topic of speculation and intrigue.
