STONE BOTHERING

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...

Nestled in the picturesque landscapes of Somerset, Flagstaff Hill is a treasure trove of history, nature, and geological wonders. This elevated landmark not only offers breathtaking views but also serves as a silent witness to centuries of human activity and natural change. In this blog post, we’ll explore the fascinating stones of Flagstaff Hill and the rich history that has shaped this iconic site. The Geological Marvels of Flagstaff Hill Flagstaff Hill is primarily composed of local limestone, a sedimentary rock that has formed over millions of years from marine deposits. The unique geological features of the hill, including its rugged outcrops and varied textures, tell a story that dates back to the Jurassic period when this region was once covered by a shallow sea. The stone itself is not just an inert material; it has played a crucial role in the local environment and human history. The limestone formations are home to diverse flora and fauna, making it a hotspot for biodiversity...

Nestled amidst the rolling hills and charming villages of Cornwall lies the intriguing Bowl Rock. This massive, granite boulder is more than just a natural wonder; it's imbued with the whimsical tales of giants that once roamed the land. A Giant's Bowling Ball? Standing proudly at the foot of Trencrom Hill, Bowl Rock's smooth, rounded form is almost too perfect to be entirely natural. Local folklore whispers of a time when giants dwelled on Trencrom. These giants, with their insatiable appetite for competition, apparently enjoyed a rather boisterous game of bowls. Bowl Rock, according to legend, is one of their well-used bowling balls, left behind after a particularly enthusiastic round. A plaque near the rock, maintained by the National Trust, reinforces this fantastical story. It playfully acknowledges the local legend, adding a touch of charm to the historical significance of the site. More Than Just a Myth While the giant's bowling game might be a delightful legend,...

The Hackpen Hill Standing Stone  is a lone sarsen stone located in Wiltshire,  England.  It stands near the White Horse Way,  an ancient prehistoric trackway,  just below the Ridgeway on Hackpen Hill. Here's some information about the stone: Type:  Sarsen stone (a type of sandstone) Possible age:  The exact age of the stone is unknown, but it is likely prehistoric. Purpose:  There is no definitive explanation for the purpose of the stone. Some theories suggest it could have been a marker stone, part of a larger monument, or even erected more recently by a farmer. While the reason for its existence remains a mystery, the Hackpen Hill Standing Stone offers a glimpse into the past and a chance to ponder the lives of those who came before us. All rights reserved Stone Bothering 

Nestled in the rugged beauty of Cornwall, England, lies Carn Euny, an archaeological site whispering secrets of a bygone era. This remarkably well-preserved ancient village offers a unique glimpse into life during the Iron Age and Roman period. A Thriving Settlement Evidence suggests Carn Euny was inhabited as early as the Neolithic period, but the most prominent structures date back to around 500 BC. The village flourished for centuries, with residents constructing roundhouses from timber. These were later replaced by more permanent stone dwellings, the foundations of which are still visible today, standing testament to the village's enduring legacy. The Enigmatic Fogou Perhaps the most intriguing feature of Carn Euny is its fogou, a mysterious underground passage unique to Cornwall. This 65-foot-long, stone-lined tunnel sparks the imagination. Theories abound regarding its purpose, with some suggesting it served as a storage space, while others believe it held a more ritualistic ...

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...

Nestled in the idyllic countryside of Wiltshire, England, lies the village of Kingsdown. But beneath its peaceful facade lurks a historical enigma: a collection of scattered ancient stones, hinting at a forgotten past. These aren't your average garden pebbles; these are large standing stones, known as menhirs, and they've sparked the curiosity of locals and historians alike. The stones themselves are impressive. Imagine monolithic giants, some reportedly exceeding the size of a car, scattered along roadsides, nestled in gardens, and even piled atop one another within Kingsdown Woods. Their presence is undeniable, yet their purpose remains shrouded in mystery. The prevailing theory suggests these stones were once part of a grander structure, possibly a stone circle – a prehistoric monument believed to hold religious significance. Imagine a ring of these megaliths standing tall on the heights of Kingsdown, perhaps similar to the Swinside Stone Circle in the Lake District. But u...

Nestled amidst the rolling hills of Worcestershire, Bredon Hill offers not just stunning views but also a peek into the past. Among its many historical landmarks are the King and Queen Stones, a pair of imposing natural wonders shrouded in legend and intrigue. Stones Steeped in History The exact origins of the King and Queen Stones remain shrouded in mystery. Some theories suggest they are the remnants of a collapsed long barrow, an ancient burial chamber. Another theory points to their natural formation, with the stones being large fragments of oolitic limestone cemented together over time. A Local Tradition of Healing Legend imbues the stones with a touch of magic. Locals have long believed that passing between the King and Queen Stones can cure illness. This tradition likely stems from a time when people attributed natural landmarks with mystical properties. Court Leet: A Touch of Ceremony Interestingly, the King and Queen Stones played a part in a more official capacity. For centu...

Standing tall and weathered on Minchinhampton Common in Gloucestershire, England, lies the Longstone. This prehistoric monument, shrouded in both time and local legend, is a fascinating piece of history that continues to spark curiosity today. Made from oolitic limestone, the Longstone reaches an impressive 7.5 feet (2.3 meters) in height. Its most striking feature is the collection of natural holes that pierce through the stone. These holes have fueled much of the folklore surrounding the Longstone. Local tradition whispers that passing a child through one of these holes can cure them of childhood ailments. Measles, whooping cough, and rickets are all said to be treatable by this curious method. Another legend claims that at the stroke of midnight, the Longstone comes alive, frolicking and dancing across the field! While the truth behind these stories remains a mystery, there's no denying the Longstone's long history. The stone is estimated to be over 4,000 years old, placing ...

Nestled in the landscapes of Peru’s Supe Valley, Caral stands as one of the oldest urban centers in the Americas. This remarkable archaeological site, dating back to around 2600 BCE, challenges our understanding of early civilization and its complexities. With its sophisticated architecture and evidence of social organization, Caral offers a tantalizing glimpse into a world long past, shrouded in mystery. A Forgotten Civilization Discovered in the 1990s by archaeologist Ruth Shady, Caral was initially overlooked in favor of more well-known sites like Machu Picchu and Nazca. However, as excavations progressed, it became clear that Caral was a monumental achievement of early society. The site covers over 150 acres and includes large pyramids, sunken plazas, and a network of residential areas. Caral’s age is particularly striking; it predates both the Mayan and Egyptian civilizations, positioning it as a critical piece in the puzzle of human development. Its discovery reshaped scholars’ u...