Ancient Ritual: Stone Age People Used Sun Stone Sacrifice to Restore Sunlight After Volcanic Eruption
In an intriguing discovery that sheds light on the rituals of Stone Age people, archaeologists have uncovered evidence of a unique practice involving the sun stones on the Danish island of Bornholm. These sun stones, small pieces of shale etched with a sun motif, were found buried in a palisade ditch on the island, suggesting a significant ancient ritual.
The discovery, detailed in a study published in the journal Antiquity, reveals that 614 stone plaques and plaque fragments adorned with sun and plant motifs were deliberately placed on the island around 2900 B.C. The majority of these stones were made from black shale, a sedimentary rock found on Bornholm, while others were crafted from quartz and flint.
Neolithic Ritual
According to the researchers, the burial of these sun stones coincided with a pivotal moment in the island’s history, marked by the transformation of the area into a fortified settlement. This timing suggests that the ritual may have been a response to a natural disaster or climatic event that disrupted agricultural practices and threatened the community’s survival. The researchers speculate that a volcanic eruption in 2910 B.C. could have triggered this ritual, as similar deposits honoring the sun have been found in other regions affected by environmental crises.
Impact of the Ritual
Following the deposition of the sun stones, a new cultural phase began on Bornholm, characterized by changes in burial practices, settlement patterns, and social interactions. The significance of the sun, however, remained paramount for Neolithic societies across Europe, as they relied on its power for agricultural productivity and spiritual beliefs.
Expert Insights
Archaeologist Lasse Vilien Sørensen from the National Museum of Denmark described the discovery as “an incredible phenomenon,” highlighting the enduring importance of sun worship in ancient societies. The findings underscore the resilience and adaptability of Neolithic communities in the face of environmental challenges, offering a glimpse into their complex belief systems and cultural practices.
Kristina Killgrove, a renowned expert in archaeology and paleoanthropology, emphasizes the significance of this discovery in illuminating the rituals of ancient civilizations. Her expertise and insights provide valuable context for understanding the implications of this groundbreaking research.
As we unravel the mysteries of the past, the sun stones of Bornholm stand as a testament to the ingenuity and spirituality of our ancestors, reminding us of the enduring power of the sun in shaping human history and culture.