Archaeologists have unearthed the remnants of a massive ancient complex close to Stonehenge that actually predates the mysterious monument by 1,000 years!
Measuring over 650 feet in diameter, the site sits a mere one-and-a-half miles from Stonehenge and is believed to be an astounding 5,650 years old.
Researchers say that the rather elaborate find resembles two concentric circles created by an astounding 3,000 feet of ditches.
Much like its more famous neighbor, the purpose of the newly discovered site is open to archaeological interpretation, but experts have some idea of what may have taken place at the site.
Based on the recovery of some human and cattle bones as well as fragments of ceramic containers, historians believe that the site once served as a location for religious rituals.
The discovery of the complex is being heralded as an enormous breakthrough, with one expert telling the Independent that it is "one of the most exciting discoveries in the Stonehenge landscape that archaeologists have ever made."
To that end, the newfound location strengthens that case that the area around Stonehenge was perceived to be incredibly important to ancient people in the area.
It also suggests that there may be even more elaborate sites from the distant past sitting beneath the surface of the ground, hiding in plain sight until modern humans can discover them.
Should we continue to dig deeper into the proverbial sands of time surrounding Stonehenge perhaps we may finally solve the riddle of the magnificent monument that has captivated humans for millennia.
Coast Insiders looking to learn more about the Stonehenge mystery can check out geologist Paul D. Burley's 5/13/2014 appearance on the program.
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Source: The Independent