An ancient timber circle, estimated to be thousands of years old and potentially linked to the iconic Stonehenge, has been unearthed in Aars, North Jutland, Denmark. The circle, known as a woodhenge, consists of at least 45 wooden posts and measures approximately 30 metres in diameter, with its construction dating back to between 2600 and 1600 BC.
The remarkable discovery occurred during excavation work at the site in January. According to Sidsel Wåhlin, a curator at Vesthimmerlands Museum, who made the discovery alongside excavation leader Andreas Bo Nielsen, the find holds significant archaeological value. “It is an extraordinary find,” Wåhlin commented. Initially, she believed she was observing a series of postholes, but soon realised it formed a complete circle. “I was like: ‘Oh my God, a timber circle, there is just no other explanation,’” she said.
Experts suggest that this woodhenge offers crucial insights into the rituals and social structures prevalent during the late Stone Age and early Bronze Age. Numerous henges exist across Britain and Ireland, ranging from round earth enclosures featuring stones or timber posts—such as Stonehenge and nearby Woodhenge—dating back as far as 3000 BC to 2000 BC. Wåhlin elaborated on their significance, stating, “They are ritual centres and sites that are connected with the worship of the sun and the agricultural ritual practices of the time.” She emphasised the thought and knowledge required to construct such specific monuments, saying, “In order to decide to make such a specific monument you have to understand what it means and how to plan it.”
The newly discovered Danish woodhenge is believed to have a similar orientation as England's Stonehenge and Woodhenge. Wåhlin pointed out that this suggests a shared worldview concerning agriculture and connections to the supernatural across large regions. “If a British person from the time would have come to the site they would have known what they are doing in there,” she remarked.
As part of the ongoing research efforts, the excavation team is currently awaiting the results of wood samples, with the posts likely made from oak. Plans for genetic testing are also in place to investigate potential DNA links between this archaeological site and others in the UK or across Europe. The discoveries from this location further highlight the cultural and ritualistic connections that existed between ancient societies in Denmark and England.
Source: Noah Wire Services