2015/07/10 by Frank Prendergast · 1 citation
Arts and Humanities · Earth and Planetary Sciences · #Historical and Architectural Studies #Archaeology and ancient environmental studies #Geology and Paleoclimatology Research
paper · doi:10.1558/jsa.v1i1.26955
openalex publication_date 2015/07/10 · openalex created_date 2025/10/10 · openalex updated_date 2026/05/21
Prehistoric stone circles are generally interpreted as having had a variety of roles and meaning in the Neolithic and Bronze Age, especially as places for gathering and ceremony in the case of the largest examples. This paper undertakes an archaeoastronomical investigation of one of the rarest types, known as an embanked stone circle. Contrary to popular belief, the findings do not indicate any clear evidence of significant astronomical alignments inherent in the monument’s architecture. However, the character of the Grange (B) stone circle is considered and interpreted within a broader range of perspectives including morphology, landscape setting, ritual function, and the likely role and meaning of the sky in the past. The modern perception of skyscapes as cultural heritage assets is considered in terms of their protection.