Researchers have identified what they believe to be a predecessor to Stonehenge located in the village of Bulford, approximately 3 miles from the well-known prehistoric site. The structure, which dates to around 5,000 years ago, consisted of two wooden posts positioned 120 meters apart and stood between 2 and 4 meters in height. Like Stonehenge, these posts were aligned with solar events, specifically the summer and winter solstices.
The discovery was made roughly a decade ago during ground clearance for military housing, but detailed analysis of the alignment has only recently been completed. Researchers used astronomical reconstruction techniques to determine that the posts would have aligned precisely with sunrise on the summer solstice and sunset on the winter solstice when viewed from specific positions. This alignment mirrors the solar orientation of the more famous monument, suggesting shared cultural and astronomical knowledge among prehistoric communities.
Excavations at the site yielded numerous artifacts that provide insight into the lives of ancient inhabitants. These findings included pottery fragments, flint tools, antler implements, carved animal bones, and a notably crafted disc-shaped knife. Radiocarbon dating analysis of these materials confirmed the site’s age of approximately 5,000 years, placing it at the same period as the earliest construction phases at Stonehenge.
Experts suggest the Bulford structure may indicate where people involved in Stonehenge’s construction resided or gathered seasonally. The focus on solar alignment in both locations reflects the agricultural societies’ dependence on seasonal changes. While today’s visitors to Stonehenge are drawn to the summer solstice celebration, evidence suggests winter solstice held greater significance for ancient communities, potentially marking a crucial moment for ensuring the return of spring and the flourishing of crops and livestock.
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