The United Kingdom’s megalithic monuments, steeped in mystery and history, have captivated experts and enthusiasts for centuries. While Stonehenge dominates global recognition, the UK is home to countless other enigmatic stone structures. Two newly discovered stone circles in Dartmoor National Park, Devon, are sparking fresh discussions about their purpose and significance. These findings could shed new light on the theory of a “sacred arc,” a concept gaining traction among archaeologists.
A Monumental Discovery in Dartmoor
Renowned archaeologist Alan Endacott, who has dedicated years to studying Dartmoor’s prehistoric landscape, unearthed these two neolithic stone circles. According to The Guardian, these sites bear striking similarities to other iconic megalithic structures, including Stonehenge. The discoveries are particularly significant as they are the first stone circles to be identified in Dartmoor in over a century.
Endacott’s previous discoveries in the area included a stone circle in 2007, which helped lay the groundwork for his “sacred arc” theory. He believes that these megalithic structures were deliberately arranged across Dartmoor’s highlands, creating a symbolic arc that may have held spiritual or ceremonial significance.
The Sacred Arc: Enclosing the Landscape
“Dartmoor would have been very different then,” Endacott explained in an interview with The Guardian. “There would have been a lot more forest cover. So possibly, they were markers in the landscape—they recognized the higher ground and wanted to enclose it for some reason.”
This concept suggests that the high ground of Dartmoor served as a focal point for these ancient communities. The stone circles, strategically placed, may have marked sacred boundaries or served as meeting places for rituals.
A Northern Gateway to the Arc
While one of the newly discovered circles fits neatly into the sweeping curve of the arc, the second stands apart. Positioned to the north, Endacott hypothesizes that this circle served as an entryway into the arc from the surrounding landscape.
This distinction adds a layer of complexity to the sacred arc theory, suggesting that these structures were not just isolated monuments but interconnected parts of a larger ceremonial network.
Connections to Stonehenge and Beyond
Adding to the intrigue, Endacott noted parallels between these stone circles and other significant sites, such as the Stripple Stones on Bodmin Moor, the Ring of Brodgar on Orkney, and even Stonehenge itself. An external bank near one of the circles strongly hints at its classification as a henge monument—a type of earthwork-enclosed structure often associated with ritual use.
Endacott speculates that the builders of these Dartmoor circles may have been inspired by or even interacted with the communities responsible for constructing Stonehenge. This possibility underscores the interconnectedness of neolithic societies across Britain.
New Evidence, New Questions
“These excavations exceeded my expectations and brought new evidence to light that will help with our understanding,” Endacott remarked. “But inevitably, they have also raised more questions about why they were built.”
The discoveries at Dartmoor not only enrich our understanding of prehistoric landscapes but also invite us to reimagine the lives, beliefs, and ambitions of the people who built these awe-inspiring monuments.
