Ring of Brodgar, Stenness
Facts and practical information
Nestled in the heart of the Neolithic landscape of Orkney, Scotland, the Ring of Brodgar is a prehistoric marvel that continues to captivate visitors from around the world. This ancient stone circle, located near the town of Stenness, is a monumental testament to the engineering and ceremonial prowess of a bygone era.
Consisting of a massive stone henge, the Ring of Brodgar is believed to have been erected between 2500 BC and 2000 BC, making it one of the oldest such structures in the United Kingdom. The site features a circle of towering megaliths, originally numbering around 60 stones, of which 27 remain standing today. With a diameter of approximately 104 meters, the ring is one of the largest of its kind in the British Isles.
The area around the Ring of Brodgar is rich with archaeological significance, forming part of the Heart of Neolithic Orkney World Heritage Site. This designation highlights the outstanding universal value of the ring and its neighboring sites, including the Stones of Stenness, the Maeshowe Chambered Cairn, and Skara Brae.
Visitors to the Ring of Brodgar are treated to a mystical experience as they walk among the silent stones, set against the dramatic backdrop of the Orkney landscape. The surrounding heather-clad moorland and the nearby lochs of Harray and Stenness add to the serene atmosphere of this ancient site.
While the purpose of the Ring of Brodgar remains shrouded in mystery, it is widely believed to have served as a ceremonial site or astronomical observatory. The precise layout and orientation of the stones suggest a sophisticated understanding of the movements of the sun and moon among the Neolithic inhabitants of Orkney.
For tourists planning to visit, the Ring of Brodgar is open year-round and is free to enter. There are no facilities on-site, so visitors are encouraged to prepare accordingly and respect the delicate nature of this historical treasure. Walking paths around the ring provide ample opportunity for contemplation and photography, allowing one to fully immerse in the ancient spirit of this remarkable monument.
Scotland