Megaliths - for centuries these mammoth constructs have been a source of wonder and bafflement. Generally speaking, it has been speculated that these large, stone creations were used by ancient cultures for religious activities, astronomical observatories, burial sites, temples, healing and other ritual purposes. They have long been believed to possess electromagnetic and supernatural forces. Some researchers have even claimed to experience electric shocks strong enough to knock them to the ground when touching the stones. One thing is sure. Megalithic sites are a source of controversy and mystery; but, what are megaliths?

The word “megalith”, meaning “great stone” was derived from the Greek words “megas” (great) and “lithos” (stone). Megaliths are large stones that have been used in the construction of structures or monuments (either standing alone or grouped together) without the use of cement or mortar. A broader definition, megaliths can also be a rock or collection of rocks that have been arranged in a definite shape for special purposes.

These structures have dated back to the Neolithic period (earlier Mesolithic examples have been found). Although the construction of these structures has been thought to take place mainly in the Neolithic period, there is evidence that supports the appearance of them throughout the Catholic and Bronze Ages. Mainly found in Western Europe, these structures can also be found all over the world in such places as Asia, Africa, Australia and North and South America. The most recognized of these monuments being Stonehenge, Easter Island and the Carnac Stones in France.

There are many varieties of megaliths, including menhirs (standing), alignments (rows of menhirs), henges (circles), dolmens (standing, topped with a flat stone) and barrows (earth-covered dolmens). Most megaliths fall within two basic categories: menhirs and dolmens, and they usually contain burial chambers of one or more rooms. Some even contain long chambers or hallways and have been coined “long tombs” or “passage graves”. These megaliths are prominent in Wales, Scotland, England and Ireland.

Menhirs are considered large, singular or grouped, standing stones that are arranged in cromlechs (circles) or henges. A circular henge is usually surrounded by a bank or ditch to distinguish it. There is at least one entrance to them and they have often been thought to have supernatural or magical healing powers. The sick, elderly or infertile used the holes in the upright stones for healing purposes. Some believed that these stones contained spirits or fairies and would leave offerings at the site to keep them placated.

Dolmens have been used for sepulchral purposes, although they have often been thought to be used for other purposes since remains have not been found in all of them. It has been thought that some dolmens have been used as temples. There is evidence that shows ritual sacrifices and even cannibalism have taken place within dolmens.

Though studied for generations, the world’s megalith sites are still a scientific mystery. To date, no mainstream scientific discipline has engaged in the study of these sites. Pioneer scholars who have studied megalithic sites have oftentimes been ignored by the mainstream. There seems to be an uncertainty which deters scholars and scientists from studying these sites. Though their exact origins and purpose may be lost to history, the answer is out there. The question is: Who will be brave enough to pursue it?