Prehistoric Builders Hauled 25-Tonne Stones at Least 18 Km to Build Iconic Devil's Arrows
Researchers used isotopic fingerprinting to show the 25-tonne stones came from Brimham Rocks, overturning signs that had blamed Plumpton Rocks.
- University of York and Curtin University researchers confirmed the "Devil's Arrows" monoliths originated at Brimham Rocks, not Plumpton Rocks as previously believed. Isotopic fingerprinting techniques traced the 23ft tall pillars' exact geological birthplace.
- Standing in Boroughbridge for up to 5,000 years, the three pillars inspired local folklore describing the Devil hurling stones from How Hill across Yorkshire. They actually traveled 18km, contradicting the cherished legend.
- Researchers confirmed a long-lost fourth monument had been "hiding in plain sight," carved into the Battle Cross in Aldborough. Geochemical testing using microscopic minerals traced the stone's exact geological birthplace.
- Dr. Jim Leary of the University of York said Neolithic communities moved 25-tonne stones to create a sacred landscape between the Swale and Ure rivers. The work proves ancient people transported rocks over great distances.
- While monuments in southern England and Scotland receive considerable attention, the Arrows had remained comparatively understudied despite their striking Neolithic architecture. These findings now highlight their significance in Britain's sacred landscape.
12 Articles
12 Articles
The Independent
The Independent (US)Ancient builders brought 25-tonne stones from 18km away for Devil’s Arrows
Prehistoric Britons likely chose megalithic stones from sources holding personal meaning for them rather than sites offering logistical convenience
Prehistoric builders hauled 25-tonne stones at least 18 km to build iconic Devil's Arrows
New research has revealed that ancient builders deliberately transported enormous 25-tonne stones across at least 18 kilometers (11 miles) to build Britain's tallest surviving prehistoric stone row—the iconic Devil's Arrows.
A new study overturns the current theory about the origin of giant stones and shows that Neolithic people probably chose stones not based on convenience...More...
Without trucks, cranes, and probably even bicycles, prehistoric inhabitants of what is now England moved stone giants weighing more than 25 tons at least 18 kilometers. A new analysis has revealed where the mysterious Devil's Arrows came from. But how they got them to their destination remains a mystery.
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