henge etymology

Etymology

The word "henge" is believed to come from the Old English or Anglo-Saxon term "hengeboga", which means "a place to hang or swing". This likely refers to the ring of wooden posts or stones that are characteristic ofhenge monuments.

Meaning and Origin

A henge is a type of prehistoric monument that typically consists of a circular or oval earthwork with a ditch and a central mound.

The origins of henges date back to the Neolithic period in Britain, around 3000-2500 BCE. They were constructed by early farmers and herders, and are thought to have been used for a variety of purposes, including ceremonial, ritual, and astronomical functions.

Henges are often found in association with other prehistoric monuments, such as stone circles, barrows, and causewayed enclosures. This suggests that they may have been part of a larger network of ritual and ceremonial sites.

Some of the most famous henges in Britain include Stonehenge, Avebury, and Silbury Hill. These monuments have been extensively studied by archaeologists, and they continue to be a source of fascination and intrigue.

henge relate terms

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