Neolithic 'sun stones' sacrificed in Denmark revives sun after volcanic eruption
a year ago
- #Climate Change
- #Neolithic
- #Archaeology
- Neolithic communities on Bornholm buried engraved 'sun stones' around 4,900 years ago to counter climate changes caused by a volcanic eruption.
- The eruption around 2900 BCE released sulfur, blocking sunlight, lowering temperatures, and causing crop failures, threatening early farmers.
- Over 600 sun stones, made of shale with sun-related motifs, were found in Vasagård, accompanied by animal bones, pottery, and flint tools.
- Dr. Rune Iversen suggests these sacrifices aimed to restore sunlight and ensure agricultural prosperity.
- Ice cores and sediment layers confirm the volcanic eruption's timing and its impact on climate, including reduced sunlight.
- The period saw upheaval in Northern Europe, with plague infections and the decline of the Funnel Beaker culture.
- Vasagård's alignment with solstices highlights its role as a sun worship center, similar to Stonehenge.