Archaeologists in Denmark have uncovered a remarkable 4,000-year-old circular wooden structure, drawing intriguing parallels to Britain’s iconic Stonehenge. The discovery, located in the northwestern town of Aars, consists of 45 wooden posts arranged in a near-perfect circle with a diameter of approximately 30 meters (100 feet). The structure, dating back to the Neolithic period, was found during construction work on a new housing development.
A Rare and Significant Discovery
Sidsel Wahlin, a conservationist at the Vesthimmerland Museum, described the finding as a "once-in-a-lifetime discovery." The team believes the structure may have connections to the broader tradition of henges—circular monuments historically associated with astronomical alignments and ritualistic practices.
The famous Stonehenge monument in England, with its concentric stone circles, was constructed between 3100 BC and 1600 BC. While the newly discovered Danish site consists of wooden posts rather than stone, researchers suggest a potential cultural or religious link between the two structures.
Exploring the Purpose and Structure
Archaeologists are now investigating whether an inner circle exists within the Aars site, which could provide further insights into its function. Similar wooden circles have been found on the Danish island of Bornholm, historically linked to sun-worshiping practices. However, this newly discovered structure is the largest of its kind ever excavated in Denmark.
The site also yielded remains of an early Bronze Age (1700-1500 BC) settlement, including a chieftain’s grave and a bronze sword. Wahlin noted that what initially appeared to be remnants of a typical house and fence turned out to be the entrance to a meticulously designed, slightly oval structure.
Determining Age and Function
Based on initial estimates, the wooden circle likely dates to around 2000 BC. However, archaeologists have begun detailed analyses to confirm its exact age and purpose. The team is particularly focused on uncovering ritual deposits such as flint arrowheads and daggers, which could provide further clues about the site’s significance.
Additionally, researchers are exploring possible cultural exchanges between the region and other ancient societies, including those responsible for building Stonehenge. Evidence of outside influences has already been observed in pottery and burial sites found nearby.
Unraveling Denmark’s Ancient Past
This discovery offers a rare opportunity to study large-scale prehistoric structures in Denmark and their connections to other ancient civilizations. As archaeologists continue their investigations, the Aars site may reveal new insights into early European ritual practices and the broader significance of circular monuments in prehistoric cultures.
