Stone labyrinths of Bolshoi Zayatsky Island

Nestled on the windswept shores of Bolshoi Zayatsky Island, part of Russia's Solovetsky Archipelago in the White Sea, lie the mysterious stone labyrinths, a captivating archaeological site that has intrigued scholars and visitors alike. These enigmatic formations, believed to date back to the Neolithic era, are among the most ancient and significant historical remnants found in the region.

The labyrinths on Bolshoi Zayatsky Island are a series of intricate, spiraling stone configurations, with some estimates suggesting that there were originally around 13 to 14 of these structures on the island. Today, visitors can still observe eight well-preserved labyrinths, each with its own unique design and pattern. The largest of these spans approximately 25 meters in diameter, presenting a complex path that winds towards a central goal.

The purpose of these stone spirals remains a topic of debate among historians and archaeologists. Various theories propose that they served as fishing traps, astronomical observatories, ritual sites, or even maps for navigating the treacherous waters of the White Sea. Their precise function may be lost to time, but the labyrinths continue to be a source of fascination due to their sophisticated construction and the enigmatic nature of their creators.