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Showing posts with the label Dolmens

Visiting Dolmen da Oração in Florianópolis

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Far from the well-known pyramids of Egypt or the stone circles of Britain lies a mysterious complex of ancient stones in Brazil that very few know about. Hidden in the lush hills of Florianópolis, on Morro da Galheta, this sacred site is home to a series of megalithic structures, including the enigmatic Dolmen da Oração and the powerful Central Menhir. These stone monuments were carefully placed by prehistoric indigenous civilizations—long before European colonization—and they continue to challenge our understanding of time, space, and spirituality. In this post, we will explore: The mysterious origin and structure of the Dolmen da Oração The Central Menhir and its symbolic role Alignment with astronomical events Indigenous myths and spiritual beliefs Why this site may be Brazil’s answer to Stonehenge How to visit and experience it for yourself 1. What Is the Dolmen da Oração? The Dolmen da Oração (translated as  "Dolmen of Prayer" ) is a megalithic altar composed of three la...

A Giant's House: Exploring Trethevy Quoit

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In the heart of Cornwall, England, stands a testament to a bygone era: Trethevy Quoit. Known locally as "the giant's house," this impressive megalithic structure is a well-preserved example of a portal dolmen, a type of burial chamber dating back to the Neolithic period (around 3500-2500 BC). Standing at nearly 9 feet (2.7 meters) tall, Trethevy Quoit is formed by five massive upright stones topped with a giant capstone. The structure's name itself offers a clue to its origins. "Trethevy" translates from Cornish to "place of the graves," hinting at its likely purpose as a communal tomb for ancestors. A Look Inside the Giant's House Unlike many dolmens, Trethevy Quoit has a unique feature: a small, moveable stone at the front that once allowed access to the chamber. However, for preservation reasons, this entrance is rarely opened today. Interestingly, the back of the chamber has collapsed inwards, adding to the monument's intrigue. More Tha...

Chun Castle and Chun Quoit: Two ancient Cornish landmarks

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Chun Castle and Chun Quoit are two of the most impressive ancient landmarks in Cornwall, England. Located near the village of Pendeen, they offer visitors a glimpse into the rich history and culture of the region. Chun Castle is a large Iron Age hillfort, built around 2,500 years ago. It is situated on a prominent hilltop, affording stunning views of the surrounding countryside and coastline. The fort is surrounded by two massive stone walls, with the inner wall enclosing an area of around 10 acres. The interior of the fort contains the remains of several roundhouses, which would have been the homes of the people who lived and worked there. Chun Castle is thought to have had a defensive purpose, given its strategic location and the presence of the two stone walls. However, it is also likely that the fort was a center for trade and social activity. The proximity of the fort to the much older Chun Quoit suggests that the two sites may have been connected in some way. Chun Quoit is a Neol...

Exploring the Mystical Dolmens of England

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Dolmens, those ancient megalithic structures, have captivated the imagination of many, standing as silent sentinels of history. Found scattered across the English countryside, these burial chambers are steeped in mystery and lore. In this blog post, we’ll explore some of the most notable dolmens in England. TRETHEVY QUOIT Located in Cornwall, Trethevy Quoit is one of the most striking dolmens in the country. This impressive structure consists of a massive capstone resting on three upright stones, creating a chamber that was likely used for burial purposes around 3500 BC. The quoit measures approximately 4 meters long and stands at a height of 2 meters. Its architectural grandeur hints at the skills of prehistoric builders and their understanding of stone construction. Visitors to Trethevy Quoit often feel a deep connection to the ancient world, imagining the rituals and ceremonies that once took place here. SPINSTER'S ROCK Not far from the picturesque village of Drewsteignton in De...

Spinster's Rock: A Glimpse into Devon's Neolithic Past

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Nestled amidst the rolling hills of Dartmoor National Park in Devon, England, lies a fascinating relic of the past – Spinsters' Rock. This impressive dolmen, also known as a cromlech, is a testament to the ingenuity and beliefs of the Neolithic people who inhabited the region over 4,000 years ago. What is a Dolmen? The word "dolmen" comes from the Breton language and translates to "stone table." These megalithic structures typically consist of large, flat capstones supported by several upright stones. They were primarily used as burial chambers, serving as final resting places for the deceased. Spinsters' Rock: A Survivor of Time Spinsters' Rock is the most well-preserved dolmen in Devon. It comprises three granite supports, each reaching heights between 5.5 and 7.5 feet, holding aloft a massive capstone measuring an impressive 15 by 10 feet. Unfortunately, the surrounding barrow, which would have originally covered the dolmen with earth and stones, has ...

Discover the Top Ancient Sites in Cornwall

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Cornwall, located in the southwestern tip of England, is home to some of the most intriguing and well-preserved ancient sites in the United Kingdom. These landmarks, steeped in history, offer a glimpse into the lives of the early inhabitants of the British Isles. From Neolithic stone circles to Bronze Age burial chambers, Cornwall’s ancient sites are a must-visit for history enthusiasts, archaeology lovers, and anyone interested in the mysteries of the past. In this blog post, we will take you through some of the most fascinating ancient sites in Cornwall. MEN-AN-TOL One of Cornwall’s most famous and enigmatic sites is Men-an-Tol. This prehistoric monument, believed to date back to the Bronze Age, consists of four upright stones, one of which has a large circular hole in the center. The exact purpose of Men-an-Tol is unknown, but it is thought to have had ritualistic significance, possibly related to fertility or healing. Many local legends surround Men-an-Tol, including the belief tha...