Stonehenge exhibition opens at the British Museum
It will explore the history behind Wiltshire's famous Neolithic monument
Last updated 17th Feb 2022
One of Wiltshire's most prized possessions is the focal point of a new exhibition at the British Museum in London.
'The world of Stonehenge' opens today (Thursday 17th February), giving people a chance to learn more about the iconic stones.
The museum say it will reveal the secrets of Stonehenge "shining a light on its purpose, cultural power and the people that created it".
Over 430 objects have been brought together from across Europe.
A preserved 4,000-year-old timber circle dubbed 'Seahenge' also takes centre stage in the show, on loan for the very first time.
The exhibition is running at the museum until July 17th 2022.
Dr Jennifer Wexler, project curator of The world of Stonehenge at the British Museum, said:
“If Stonehenge is one of the world’s most remarkable surviving ancient stone circles, then Seahenge is the equivalent in timber. But as it was only rediscovered in 1998, it is still relatively unknown. We know about some aspects of the monument, including that it was constructed in the spring and summer of 2049 BC, from mighty oaks. But there’s much that still eludes us, including exactly what it was used for. Perhaps the central upturned trunk was used in funerary rituals to support a dead body. Perhaps entering the circular shrine brought worshippers closer to the otherworld.
By displaying Seahenge in this exhibition we hope to bring it to a wider audience, and it provides an unparalleled opportunity to time travel back to themoment when circles of stone and timber were at the heart of people’s beliefs.”
Items have been loaned by the Salisbury Museum, including treasures buried with the Amesbury Archer.
His grave contained the richest array of items ever found in a Bronze Age burial site in the UK, and 39 of these items – including copper knives, gold ornaments and flint tools – have travelled to the exhibition.
Hartwig Fischer, Director of the British Museum, said:
“To understand the purpose of the great stone monument constructed on Salisbury Plain, it is essential to consider its contemporary world and the culture of its builders. We are delighted to be able to do this in this unprecedented exhibition. Over 430 exceptional objects are being brought together, objects which are the last and only testament of sophisticated and ingenious people, and we are grateful to all of the lenders who have made it possible.”