Stonehenge research framework

English Heritage summaries. 2003/04

Stonehenge is one of Europe’s most eminent prehistoric monuments, a fact recognized in 1986 when the site and its surrounding landscape was inscribed on the World Heritage List as part of the Avebury and Stonehenge and Associated Sites World Heritage Site. Since that time, much effort has been given to improving the conservation, management, and presentation of Stonehenge and its environs. Research has also played an important role with several extensive surveys and selective excavations helping to improve understandings of the site and its setting.

But how does all the archaeological work carried out over the last century or so fit together? And what should we do next? This volume sets out to provide an overview of achievements and a framework for future research at and around Stonehenge. It is divided into four main sections. The first considers the developing interest in the archaeology of Stonehenge and asks what approaches are appropriate to revealing more about the area’s past. Second is a summary of our current knowledge about Stonehenge and its environs from the last Ice Age down to the end of the twentieth century AD. Third, a series of outstanding issues or questions are discussed that would help expand our knowledge and understanding of the site and its landscape. And finally, a series of 25 objectives are set out as broad initiatives to be pursued over the next few years, either as specific research projects or through being integrated into public policy in relation to planning and the conservation and management of the environment.

This page was published on 15/06/2005