A groundbreaking discovery has unveiled the ancient origins of a burial site, now recognized as Britain’s earliest large circular enclosure. Research conducted by the University of Exeter and Historic England has provided new insights into the prehistoric Flagstones monument near Dorchester, Dorset, dating back to the Neolithic period around 3,200BC, approximately two centuries earlier than previously believed. Speculation has arisen regarding Flagstones potentially serving as a model for the iconic Stonehenge.
Excavations at the site have uncovered human remains, red deer antlers, and charcoal, thanks to advanced radiocarbon analysis. By combining these findings with archaeological data, researchers determined that early Neolithic activities, such as pit digging, occurred around 3,650BC. The construction of the circular ditched enclosure took place around 3,200BC, followed promptly by the placement of burials within it. Dr. Greaney emphasized the significance of Flagstones’ chronology in understanding the evolution of ceremonial and funerary structures in Britain, drawing parallels between the monument and Stonehenge’s initial phase.
Flagstones was first discovered in the 1980s during the Dorchester bypass construction when excavations unveiled its circular ditch formed by intersecting pits. Today, a portion of the site remains buried beneath the bypass, while the rest lies beneath Max Gate, the former residence of Thomas Hardy. The monument’s ties to other prominent sites, such as Llandygái ‘Henge’ A in Gwynedd, Wales, and indications of shared burial practices with locations in Ireland, underscore the interconnectedness of Neolithic communities across Britain and beyond. This breakthrough sheds light on the intricate network of ancient cultures in the region, showcasing the rich history and heritage of prehistoric Britain
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