Archaeologists in the central Netherlands have stumbled upon a sanctuary resembling the world-renowned Stonehenge, dating back 4,000 years. This newly found site spans the area of about three soccer fields and, akin to Stonehenge, was architecturally designed to synchronize with the sun during solstices. Built from soil and timber, this sanctuary revealed various relics, such as animal bones, human skulls, and valuable artifacts like a bronze spearhead, particularly at locations where sunlight penetrated through gaps.
A statement issued by Tiel municipality, located approximately 70 kilometres east of Rotterdam and close to the excavation site, detailed, “The predominant mound functioned analogously to England’s iconic Stonehenge, serving as a solar calendar.”
The sanctuary played a pivotal role, marking special days, hosting ceremonies, and serving as a burial ground. The site was adorned with rows of poles along routes used for ceremonial parades.
In 2017, when the excavation began, multiple burial sites were unearthed. Notably, a female grave contained a Mesopotamian glass bead, the oldest of its kind found in the Netherlands. This bead, originating from current-day Iraq, indicates that the inhabitants of this region had contacts stretching nearly 5,000 kilometres.
Over half a decade, the team meticulously analyzed over a million relics spanning eras from the Stone Age to the Middle Ages. Following the completion of their excavation, the site was reburied for impending construction.
A selection of these unearthed treasures will be displayed in Tiel’s local museum and the Dutch National Museum of Antiquities.
The discovery in the Netherlands offers a riveting testament to the intricate and expansive networks of ancient civilizations. It reiterates the importance of preserving and studying these archaeological wonders, as they not only provide a window into the past but also help to weave the intricate tapestry of human history. As we gaze upon these relics in the museums, they whisper tales of ancient rituals, distant connections, and the unyielding human spirit to mark our place in the cosmos.
