Archaeologists say they now have strong proof that a vast circle of enormous pits near Stonehenge was carved by Neolithic people more than 4,000 years ago.
The structure, known as the Durrington pit circle, stretches more than a mile across and may include around 20 pits, some measuring up to 10 metres wide and 5 metres deep. First identified in 2020, the feature was initially met with scepticism, with some experts suggesting it could be natural.
A new study, published in Internet Archaeology, used a unique combination of scientific techniques – including ground radar, magnetometry, electrical resistance scanning, soil DNA analysis and luminescence dating – to confirm the pits were deliberately dug by humans.
Researchers found consistent, repeated soil patterns that could not have formed naturally. Prof Vincent Gaffney of the University of Bradford said the findings show the pits are part of an “extraordinary” prehistoric monument.
While their exact purpose remains unknown, the team believes the structure may have been linked to ancient beliefs about the underworld and the cosmos.
