Stonehenge's Altar Stone Origin Revealed as Scottish, Not Welsh

In a groundbreaking study published in *Nature*, researchers have determined that the six-ton Altar Stone at Stonehenge, a prominent Neolithic monument in southern England, originates from the Orcadian Basin in northern Scotland, rather than from southwest Wales as previously believed. Anthony Clarke, a PhD student at Curtin University, led the analysis, which revealed distinct mineral grains in the stone that date back between 1,000 to 2,000 million years, providing a unique chemical fingerprint linking it to Scotland. The Altar Stone, a significant feature of Stonehenge, has puzzled archaeologists for nearly 5,000 years regarding its origin and transportation. The study's findings indicate that this massive stone was transported approximately 750 kilometers (466 miles) from Scotland to Salisbury Plain, a feat unprecedented for stones of that era. Co-author Robert Ixer from University College London described the results as "genuinely shocking," emphasizing the implications for understanding Neolithic societies across Britain. The research team utilized chemical analysis of mineral fragments collected from previous excavations, confirming the Altar Stone's Scottish roots. This revelation not only challenges long-held beliefs about the stone's origin but also suggests a complex network of prehistoric transportation and cultural connections between southern England and northern Scotland. While the exact methods of transporting such a large stone remain unclear, the study opens new avenues for exploring the relationships among Neolithic populations and their monumental constructions. The Altar Stone's purpose at Stonehenge continues to be a mystery, with ongoing debates about its ceremonial significance.