Megaliths are large stones that were used to build structures in prehistoric times. The most common type of megalithic structure is a dolmen, which is a chamber made of two or more upright stones supporting a capstone. Other types of megalithic structures include stone circles, alignments, and cairns.
The purpose of megaliths is a matter of debate among archaeologists. Some believe that they were used for burials and rituals, while others believe that they were used for astronomical observations, defense fortifications, or marking territorial boundaries.
There is evidence to support all of these theories. For example, many megalithic structures have been found to contain human remains, and some have been found to be aligned with astronomical features such as the sun and moon. However, there is no single theory that can explain all of the evidence, and it is likely that megaliths were used for a variety of purposes.
Here is a brief explanation of each of the options:
- Burials and rituals: Megaliths were often used as burial sites. Some megalithic structures, such as dolmens, were clearly built to house the dead. Others, such as stone circles, may have been used for rituals associated with death and the afterlife.
- Astronomical observations: Some megalithic structures, such as Stonehenge, are aligned with astronomical features such as the sun and moon. This suggests that they may have been used for astronomical observations.
- Defense fortifications: Megaliths could also have been used for defense fortifications. Some megalithic structures, such as the Iron Age hillforts of Britain, are located in strategic positions and are surrounded by ditches and ramparts.
- Marking territorial boundaries: Megaliths could also have been used to mark territorial boundaries. Some megalithic structures, such as the stone rows of Carnac in Brittany, France, are located in areas where there are natural boundaries, such as rivers or coastlines.
It is likely that megaliths were used for a variety of purposes, including burials and rituals, astronomical observations, defense fortifications, and marking territorial boundaries.