Where is Stonehenge? An introduction to visiting Stonehenge

Nothing oozes more mystery than Stonehenge, which is perhaps why it’s worthy of its own special dedication. Almost everyone around the world is familiar with Stonehenge, yet nobody knows its true history. As one of the world’s greatest heritage sites, Stonehenge is visited by millions of tourists every year, all trying to catch a glimpse of the mystifying ancient structure that has baffled archaeologists and historians for years.

In the picturesque countryside of Salisbury lies the ancient circle of stones that we know as Stonehenge. No other ancient formation has stirred such controversy as Stonehenge does. This may be the reason behind its popularity. The imposing stones looming over the grasslands create a magical illusion of wonder and awe; the sight is truly magnificent.

History of Stonehenge

Estimated to date back to 3100 BC, Stonehenge is one of the oldest preserved sites known to man in Europe. Mystery surrounds the strategic placement of the rare bluestone from Wales, and for years, the unknown has been debated. Unlike other European ancient sites, such as the Parthenon in Athens, nobody knows why and how Stonehenge was built, adding to its enigma.

The questions most commonly asked include:

• Who built Stonehenge?
• Why did they build it?
• How was it constructed?

The most popular school of thought is that it was used as a human sacrifice to astronomy and the lunar and solar gods. But who knows? Visit it and speculate for yourself.

Visiting Stonehenge

When visiting Stonehenge, you’ll be able to take in the rich countryside that surrounds it. It lies virtually in the middle of nowhere, making it the perfect destination if you want to explore and discover ancient life and history.

Getting there is easy, with Stonehenge day tours leaving regularly from all major hubs. If you prefer a leisurely drive through the splendid rolling hills, there is ample space to park your car.

Other Attractions Nearby

If you find that you still haven’t had your fill of prehistoric history, travel down the road for 25 miles to find another impressive site: Avebury. This site is one of the more notable ancient structures that remain fully intact.

A lone towering stone structure sits quietly amongst the sheep, and this is yet another masterpiece that has roused curiosity. Thought to represent the human life cycle of birth, life, and death from Neolithic times, Avebury carries more human meaning.

Unlike Stonehenge, you’ll be able to get up close and personal with this imposing tower. There are no set visiting times for Avebury, as it stands alone in a farmer’s field. You can visit it day or night, whatever you prefer. One thing is for sure: you too will be left wondering.

Many local villagers claim that spirits meander through the hills and dance around the shrine, thought to have strong spiritual powers even to this day.

If it is mystery teamed with history that you want, there is no better place than Salisbury’s villages to try to uncover the secrets of Stonehenge and Avebury for yourself. There’s no need to travel abroad to get a taste of ancient life; the UK would appear to have it all.