1. Quarrying and Shaping Stones:
- The stones used at Stonehenge are believed to have come from two main sources: the sarsen stones (sandstone) from the nearby Marlborough Downs and the bluestones (igneous rock) from the Preseli Hills in Wales.
- The sarsen stones, which form the outer circle and trilithons, were likely shaped using antler picks and stone hammers.
- The bluestones, which form the inner circle and horseshoe, required more intricate shaping and may have been worked on at the Preseli quarries before transportation.
2. Transportation of Stones:
- The transportation of these massive stones, some weighing several tons, over long distances was a remarkable feat.
- Various methods have been proposed, including the use of sledges pulled by oxen or teams of people, rollers, and log rafts for river transport.
- The exact routes taken for the transportation of the stones are still a matter of debate, with different theories suggesting various pathways from the quarries to Stonehenge.
3. Erection of Megaliths:
- The megaliths at Stonehenge were erected using methods that involved combinations of人力and ingenuity.
- The sarsen stones were likely raised into place using ramps made of earth and rubble.
- The bluestones may have been lifted using similar ramps or by a system of levers and ropes.
- The precise techniques for moving and maneuvering these massive stones without the use of modern machinery remain a subject of research and debate among archaeologists and engineers.
4. Joint and Tenon Construction:
- One of the notable aspects of Stonehenge is the use of the "joint and tenon" method in the construction of the trilithons.
- The sarsen uprights have protruding tenons (tongue-like projections) that fit into mortises (slots) carved into the lintels (horizontal stones).
- This joint and tenon design helped secure the trilithons and distribute weight more effectively, allowing for the stability of the structure.
5. Assembly and Alignment:
- The final stage involved fitting the various components together and aligning them with astronomical precision.
- The positioning of the stones at Stonehenge is believed to have been carefully planned to align with the summer solstice sunrise and other significant celestial events.
- The stones may have been moved and adjusted until the desired alignments were achieved.
It's essential to note that much of the knowledge about the construction of Stonehenge is based on archaeological research, simulations, and theories. There are still ongoing debates and discussions among experts regarding the exact methods and techniques used by the ancient builders of Stonehenge.