Discovering the Oldest and Largest Stone Circles: Karahunj vs Stonehenge

When it comes to prehistoric monuments, two of the most famous and intriguing structures are Stonehenge in England and Karahunj in Armenia. Both these sites have captivated the imagination of people for centuries with their mysterious geometry and astronomical alignments. In this article, we delve into the history and significance of these two ancient structures, exploring which is older and why they hold such historical importance.

The History of Stonehenge

Construction of Stonehenge began around 3,100 BCE, during the late Neolithic period. Its initial phases were marked by the construction of a circular wooden structure. Over time, this evolved into the iconic stone arrangement we see today, with the final construction phases occurring around 2,490 BCE under the reign of Pharaoh Menkaure. However, the last major changes to Stonehenge may have ceased around 1,600 BCE.

It is believed that the Neolithic people who migrated to Britain during the last ice age started the construction. Later, the Ancient Britons continued to utilize Stonehenge for their Celtic rituals. The rock arrangements were not only monumental but also served a spiritual and cultural purpose, reflecting the advanced knowledge and craftsmanship of the time.

The History of Karahunj (Zorats Karer)

Karahunj, located in Armenia, has garnered considerable attention due to its age and historical context. According to Professor Haroutyun Martirosyan of the Yerevan State University, the site is estimated to be around 7,500 years old, making it significantly older than Stonehenge by more than 4,500 years.

Karahunj translates to "speaking stone" and is recognized as one of the oldest and largest stone circles in the world. It predates Stonehenge by several millennia and is believed to have been constructed between the 7th and 3rd millennia BCE. This makes it one of the earliest known structures of its kind, reflecting the advanced knowledge of astronomy, architecture, and engineering of its builders.

Comparative Ages and Construction Phases

Despite the differing construction phases and ages, it's important to note that both Stonehenge and Karahunj share a common timeline in their later phases. While Stonehenge's latest phases date back to around 2,500 BCE and 2,000 BCE, the early wooden phase can be traced back to approximately 4,000 BCE. Karahunj, on the other hand, is initially thought to have been constructed around the 7th millennium BCE.

This indicates that both structures were under construction at a similar period, possibly around the mid 3rd millennium BCE, according to mainstream archaeological consensus. Both sites showcase the remarkable engineering and architectural achievements of their respective cultures, highlighting the interconnectivity of human development across different regions and time periods.

Other Stone Circles in Britain and Europe

It is interesting to note that there are numerous other stone circles in Britain, with approximately 3,000 such circles found across the country. These prehistoric monuments were likely constructed for a variety of purposes, including astronomical observations, religious practices, and social rituals. Additionally, similar stone circle structures can be found in Scandinavia and Northern Germany, further emphasizing the widespread practice of stone circle construction during the Neolithic and Bronze Age.

The Great Pyramids, constructed around 2,580 BCE under the order of Pharaoh Khufu, and the Roman Empire, which began in 27 BCE, are much younger than both Stonehenge and Karahunj. The origin of the famous Stonehenge, known to many tourists, began approximately 9,000 years ago, showcasing its historical significance and the continuing fascination it holds.

In conclusion, while Stonehenge and Karahunj each hold their own unique historical significance, Karahunj stands out as one of the oldest and most substantial stone circles, predating Stonehenge by thousands of years. Both sites serve as testament to the ingenuity and architectural prowess of their respective cultures, and continue to intrigue and inspire scholars and visitors alike.