Jan 15, 2025, 5:24 AM
Jan 15, 2025, 5:24 AM

Ancient monument Rujm el-Hiri shifts location due to tectonic activity

Highlights
  • Rujm el-Hiri in Syria has shifted tens of metres due to tectonic activity since its construction 5,000 years ago.
  • Satellite analysis indicates that the monument's celestial alignments may no longer be valid in its current position.
  • Further research is needed to determine the true purpose of Rujm el-Hiri and its role in ancient civilization.
Story

In Syria, a groundbreaking study revealed that the Rujm el-Hiri monument, constructed approximately 5,000 years ago, has significantly shifted from its original position due to tectonic activity. This ancient stone circle, often referred to as the 'Stonehenge of the East', spans nearly 150 meters and comprises around 42,000 basalt stones that were arranged in concentric circles. Satellite imagery analysis suggested that the region’s tectonic plates, which move just under an inch annually, have led to the displacement of the structure by tens of meters over millennia. Research has indicated that the positioning of Rujm el-Hiri may no longer align with astronomical events as it potentially did in ancient times. A detailed examination of historical celestial alignments between 3500 BC and 2500 BC demonstrated that the monument’s current structure differs considerably from how it would have aligned in relation to solstices and equinoxes thousands of years ago. This newly acquired knowledge has prompted scientists to reconsider the long-held theory that Rujm el-Hiri served as an astronomical observatory. Furthermore, extensive satellite surveys uncovered numerous surrounding features, including burial mounds and linear stone walls, confirming that Rujm el-Hiri is part of a more complex network of ancient structures rather than being a standalone relic. The construction of this site appears to have occurred during two significant periods: roughly between 5000 BC and 4500 BC for the main walls and circles, and between 4000 BC and 2200 BC for burial mounds and decorative features. The site’s rich history and architectural intricacies underscore the importance of ongoing archaeological investigation. Researchers have expressed the need for further excavations and studies to comprehend the timeline of construction and the monumental investment in such structures. The recent analysis highlights the potential of Rujm el-Hiri not only as an archaeological site but also as a cultural artifact of considerable significance, revealing insights into the ancient civilization that constructed it. As tectonic forces continue to shape the landscape, understanding the dynamics of this ancient site becomes increasingly essential.

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