english-heritage.org.uk/about/news/stonehenge-solstitial-function/
“The laser scan has revealed significant differences in the way the stones were shaped and worked. These differences show that Stonehenge was not only aligned with the solstices, but that the view of the monument from the Avenue, its ancient processional way to the north east, was particularly important. ”
Also they have discovered 71 ! new carvings of axes.
Very interesting. And 71 new carvings! Incredible.
The emphasis suggested by pick-dressing the stones visible from the NE approach is fascinating.
'To highlight the importance of the midwinter sunset' slots in very neatly with our understanding of the monument, but it makes me wonder 'who for'?
Difficult to think of as functional or necessary, the pick-dressing would seem to be work driven purely by aesthetics, which is interesting in itself and only begs more questions.
Like a cathedrals intention to overwhelm and impress, a statement of power or prestige rather than an indication of the function or important alignment?
The importance of the 'midwinter sunset' and Stonehenge has been accepted for some time ... its been my understanding anyway. It would be good to understand Why? Did the people who built Stonehenge worship the sun? Was the dying of the light venerated by some sort of ritual to ensure its rebirth. I'm a bit sceptical about the importance of the summer solstice where Stonehenge is concerned. The more we learn about SH, the greater the enigma. And the axe carvings are a revelation to say the least.