Science
Prehistoric builders hauled massive Devil's Arrows stones 18 kilometers, study finds
Researchers linked the giant megaliths to Brimham Rocks rather than a closer outcrop, according to ScienceDaily.
The short version
- A study found that the 25-tonne Devil's Arrows monoliths were moved at least 18 kilometers from Brimham Rocks.[ScienceDaily]
- The findings contradict prior beliefs that the prehistoric stones were sourced from the closer Plumpton Rocks.[ScienceDaily]
- Scientists used an adhesive tape sampling method to gather mineral grains without harming the monument.[ScienceDaily]
- The analysis ruled out natural glacial transport, indicating the megaliths were intentionally hauled around 2000 BC.[ScienceDaily]
Key facts
- The Devil's Arrows monoliths weigh over 25 tonnes each and reach heights of up to seven meters.[ScienceDaily]
- Research indicates the stones originated at least 18 kilometers away at Brimham Rocks instead of the previously suspected Plumpton Rocks.[ScienceDaily]
- A non-destructive technique utilizing adhesive tape was employed to gather mineral grains from the stones.[ScienceDaily]
- The mineral evidence enabled researchers to eliminate glacial transport as the cause of the stones' placement.[ScienceDaily]
What remains uncertain
- The exact timing of when the stones were hauled and raised remains an estimate, broadly placed in the Late Neolithic or Early Bronze Age around 2000 BC.[ScienceDaily]
Sources
Outlet counts describe coverage, not independent confirmation. Reports may share a wire service or original source.