Megalith

Introduction

Megaliths are large stones that have been used to construct a structure or monument, either alone or together with other stones. They are usually hewn from the local bedrock and erected by the prehistoric people who lived in the area during that time. The word 'megalithic' describes structures made of such large stones, utilizing an interlocking system without the use of mortar or cement.

Etymology

The term 'megalith' comes from the Ancient Greek words 'megas', meaning 'great', and 'lithos', meaning 'stone'. Greek is the language from which many of the words in the scientific and technical lexicon of Western languages are derived. The term was first used in English in 1849 to describe the prehistoric stone monuments from the British Isles.

Types of Megaliths

There are many different types of megaliths, the most famous of which are probably the Stonehenge in England and the Carnac Stones in France. However, they can be divided into two main types: the 'menhir' and the 'dolmen'.

Menhirs

A 'menhir' is a single standing stone, often of very large size. Menhirs are found singly as monoliths, or as part of a group of similar stones. Their size can vary considerably; but their shape is generally uneven and squared, often tapering towards the top.

Dolmens

A 'dolmen' is a type of megalithic tomb with a large flat stone laid on upright ones. Dolmens were typically covered with earth or smaller stones to form a tumulus. In many instances, that covering has weathered away, leaving only the stone 'skeleton' of the burial mound intact.

Construction and Purpose

The construction of these megalithic structures is still a subject of debate. Despite the fact that our understanding of these structures is limited, it's believed that the megaliths were not used for a single purpose but rather served several functions.

Construction

The construction methods used in the early periods are still a matter of some conjecture. It is believed that the stones were dragged on rollers and sledges to the construction sites. Construction techniques and artistic skills evolved over time. Some megaliths were painted, carved with symbols and furnished with offerings.

Purpose

The exact purpose of megaliths is still debated. They were likely used for religious and ceremonial rituals, as well as for astronomical observation. Some megaliths might have been built to honor ancestors, while others were used as territorial markers.

Distribution and Culture

Megaliths are found all over the world, but they are most densely concentrated in parts of Western Europe and Asia. Despite their global distribution, there is still much that is unknown about the cultures that built these structures.

Europe

In Europe, megaliths are particularly common in Ireland, Britain, and Scandinavia. The Carnac Stones in Brittany, France, are the most famous of these European megaliths, but there are many others, some of which are older.

Asia

In Asia, the most prolific areas are parts of Japan, India and Indonesia. The largest megalithic complex in the world is the Gunung Padang Megalithic Site in Indonesia, which has been radiocarbon dated to 20,000 years before present.