Researchers have identified what they believe to be a predecessor to Stonehenge in the village of Bulford, located approximately 3 miles from the well-known prehistoric monument. The site consists primarily of two post holes that once held wooden structures, estimated to have stood between 2 and 4 meters high and positioned 120 meters apart. Analysis indicates these posts were precisely aligned with the Sun’s position during the summer and winter solstices, mirroring the astronomical significance of Stonehenge itself.
The Bulford structure has been dated to approximately 5,000 years ago, predating the construction of Stonehenge’s stone circles by about 500 years. The dating was established through radiocarbon analysis of artifacts discovered at the site and surrounding excavation areas. The original wooden posts have long since decomposed, leaving only the holes where they were positioned as physical evidence of the structure.
In addition to the post pits, archaeologists uncovered numerous artifacts including pottery fragments, flint tools, antler implements used for digging, and carved animal bones scattered across the site. Among the finds was a particularly notable Neolithic knife that had been crafted into a distinctive disc shape, which researchers suggest may have held symbolic significance. Phil Harding of Wessex Archaeology, who led the excavation, described the knife as exceptional for its craftsmanship and noted it appeared to have been deliberately positioned, potentially indicating ritualistic importance.
Dr. Fabio Silva, an archaeoastronomer, confirmed the alignment accuracy by reconstructing the positions of celestial bodies as they appeared 5,000 years ago. Accounting for the width of the wooden posts, the alignment proved to be precisely calibrated to solar events. Experts suggest the Bulford site may represent a gathering location for early farming communities, and possibly housed workers involved in constructing Stonehenge’s initial earthwork phases.
The discovery provides insights into prehistoric communities’ relationship with seasonal cycles and celestial observation. According to researchers, early farmers’ dependence on seasons for crop and livestock management likely drove their focus on solar events, with the winter solstice potentially holding particular significance as it marked the year’s darkest period and the anticipated return of spring.
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