STANDING STONES FOUND some two miles away from Stonehenge could be “one of the largest stone monuments in Europe”, according to archaeologists.

Artist's impression shows how the Durrington Walls monoliths might have looked more over 4,500 years ago. Ludwig Boltzmann Institute / British Science Association Ludwig Boltzmann Institute / British Science Association / British Science Association

Researchers discovered at least 90 massive stones under the ground at Durrington Walls, a “superhenge” overlooking the Avon river.

The buried stones, which measure as high as 15 feet, form a C-shape that is thought to have marked a procession route for ancient rituals.

They were found lying on their side, but archaeologists believe they originally stood upright.

‘Designed to impress and impose’

Professor Vince Gaffney of the Stonehenge Living Landscapes project, which used ground-penetrating radar to unearth the monument, said the stones could be some 4,000 years old.

They were probably used as part of rituals, he said, “designed to impress and impose; to give the idea of authority to the living and the dead”.

The full findings of the discovery will be announced today at the British Science Festival in Bradford.

Read: The unknown story of the Irish who risked their lives to build the New York underground

Read: Here are some of the heritage sites Islamic State have blown up so far

Making a difference

A mix of advertising and supporting contributions helps keep paywalls away from valuable information like this article. Over 5,000 readers like you have already stepped up and support us with a monthly payment or a once-off donation.

For the price of one cup of coffee each week you can make sure we can keep reliable, meaningful news open to everyone regardless of their ability to pay.

Support us Learn More