Megalithic cultures in Europe
Photo: TharkunColl, CC BY-SA 3.0 via Wikimedia Commons
Megaliths are large stone structures erected by prehistoric people in many parts of Europe and a few places in the Middle East. The monuments were probably used for religious, ritual or astronomical purposes.
Today they attract archeologists, historians and tourists as they offer unique insights into the way of life and spirituality of prehistoric societies and show the engineering and technology of the Stone Age people. They are also frequently located in picturesque landscapes and are often surrounded by mystical legends.
BackgroundThe word megalith comes from the Greek mega (large) and lithos (stone). Therefore, megalith literally means large stone.
RegionsOnly the most important and worthwhile examples of this period are listed here. There are many other objects from this age, which are usually less spectacular, but are in many cases located in scenic surroundings.
Stone balls from Bosnia and HerzegovinaLarge stone spheres are known to exist in Europe, particularly in Bosnia and Herzegovina. Some of these spheres are several metres in diameter and weigh several dozen tonnes.
Stone Age megalithic structures outside EuropeDuring the Stone Age, megalithic structures were much more prevalent in Europe, particularly in Western Europe, than in other parts of the world.
See also
Sources and licences
- Guide text adapted from the Wikivoyage article "Megalithic cultures in Europe" by its contributors, available under CC BY-SA 4.0. Read on Wikivoyage · Contributors · CC BY-SA 4.0
- Photo: TharkunColl, CC BY-SA 3.0 via Wikimedia Commons