The Callanish Stones is one of the best and one of the oldest examples of Neolithic Stone Circles in the UK having been built about 5000 years ago – 2000 years earlier than Stonehenge. The site does not stand alone as there are around 20 other sites, ranging from circles to single stones, within a few miles – testament to the importance of this site to Neolithic man. In fact, the Callanish sites were used for around 2000 years before being abandoned, possibly because a change in climate made survival more difficult.
The Callanish Stones consist of a central monolith surrounded by a circle of 13 stones with 2 rows of stones forming an avenue stretching 83m to the north north east, and shorter, single rows stretching roughly north east, south west and south. Within the circle is a chambered tomb although this seems to have been built after the erection of the stones.
The function of the site remains a mystery. For such a complex site it must have been very important and have supported a thriving community. Almost certainly it had religious significance, and, amongst other things, some suggest an astronomical/lunar observatory. There is little evidence to support any of the ideas although the site is an ideal spot to view the major lunar standstill which occurs once every 18.6 years during the lunar precessional cycle, ‘the moon skims especially low over the southern hills. It seems to dance along them, like a great god visiting the earth.’
The Callanish Stones is the major tourist attraction to the Outer Hebrides not least because it is possible to walk amongst and get close to and even touch the stones. The Summer Solstice is a popular night, often with a carnival atmosphere, but frequently the sunrise cannot be seen due to the vagaries of our Hebridean weather. Oh well. You can always stitch the kit.
The Callanish Stones are now managed and maintained by Historic Environment Scotland.
I saw a photo of this kit while in Scotland but was unable to urchase it then. I’m so glad I found this site!
Nice colours looking forward to starting