History of Stonehenge

History of Stonehenge. . Although the exact date is unknown, it is widely believed that construction of Stonehenge began sometime after the last Ice Age, coinciding with the rise of the first civilizations when people began domesticating animals and establishing agricultural production., The construction time line of Stonehenge begins around 10,000 B.C. with the “Totem Poles” – large pine poles placed in the ground near the site. The construction of Stonehenge is usually considered to have undergone three separate phases:, . Phase I–3100 to 2700 B.C.–is marked by the construction of a large ditch (henge) or ring., . Phase II–2700 to 2500 B.C.–includes the digging of 56 holes, the purpose for which is unknown. The Heel Stone was probably set during this period., . Phase III is divided into three distinct sections: , . Phase III-A (2600 to 2500 B.C.): The “Blue Stone Horseshoe” (the inner ring) is constructed; construction begins on the “Sarsen Ring” (outer ring); and the four external lunar stones are set., . Phase III-B (2400 to 2300 B.C.): The “Sarsen Ring” is completed., . Phase III-C (2200 to 1800 B.C.): The entire structure is completed., Over time, from 1800 B.C. to the present, various stones have fallen or been removed from the original Stonehenge; this is a replica of the structure as it appears today in England., For more information, please contact the UTPB History Department at 552-2280.