(CLO) Recent research has disproved the theory that the Rujm el-Hiri stone circle, one of the greatest mysteries of the Middle East, was an astronomical observatory. Although estimated to be up to 5,000 years old, the purpose of this construction remains a big question mark.
First discovered in 1968 in the Golan Heights, Rujm el-Hiri is an ancient stone monument with a unique structure consisting of a central mound and several concentric circles of basalt. Measuring approximately 150 meters in diameter, the structure has challenged archaeologists as they try to explain its purpose.
The stone circle of Rujm el-Hiri in the Golan Heights. Photo: CC/Wiki
Archaeologists have proposed various theories about the function of Rujm el-Hiri. Some believe it was a defensive fortress, while others believe it may have been the burial place of an important person. However, the lack of archaeological evidence makes it extremely difficult to determine its purpose.
A 1998 study showed that the symmetry axes and entrances of Rujm el-Hiri are precisely aligned with the solstices, equinoxes, Sirius, and other celestial bodies. This suggests that it was likely used as an observatory.
To further clarify this hypothesis, the researchers studied tectonic movements around the Sea of Galilee over the past 150 million years. The results showed that the tectonic plates in northern Israel have been moving in a counterclockwise elliptical orbit at an average speed of 8 to 15 mm per year.
This means that over the past 4,000 years, Rujm el-Hiri has “moved” about 40 meters, leaving its shafts, entrances and other features no longer in their original positions.
“Therefore, Rujm el-Hiri is unlikely to have been an observatory,” the researchers concluded.
The original purpose of the structure remains a big question for archaeologists. Coincidentally, earlier this year, archaeologists in Crete discovered a similar circular labyrinth, believed to have been built by the Minoan civilization.
Ha Trang (according to IFL Science, Wiki, GI)
Source: https://www.congluan.vn/nghien-cuu-he-lo-su-that-moi-ve-vong-tron-da-bi-an-hon-5000-tuoi-o-trung-dong-post329556.html
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