Twelve Apostles of Ilkley Moor
Twelve Apostles of Ilkley Moor, Bronze Age stone circle on Burley Moor, England
The Twelve Apostles form a circular arrangement of stones measuring 15 meters in diameter, with each stone standing between half a meter and 1.2 meters tall.
Originally containing up to 20 stones during the Neolithic period, the circle underwent multiple re-erection efforts after all stones had fallen by the mid-20th century.
Archaeological surveys indicate the site likely served as a ceremonial space during the transition from hunter-gatherer societies to early farming communities in Britain.
Visitors can reach the stone circle through a 30-minute walk from the Cow and Calf rocks car park, following the Dales Way track at 380 meters elevation.
Research suggests potential astronomical alignments between the Twelve Apostles and nearby stone formations, including the Grubstones Circle and Backstone Circle.
Location: Burley
GPS coordinates: 53.90156,-1.80957
Latest update: March 5, 2025 08:04
Stone circles are megalithic structures from prehistoric times. These monuments served as astronomical observation points and gathering places. The constructions demonstrate the technical abilities of early societies. The stones were placed and aligned with precision. Many of these circles connect to solstices and star constellations.
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