Zorats Karer, Stone row and archaeological site near Sisian, Armenia
The site contains 223 basalt stones arranged in rows, with some stones reaching heights of 3 meters and weights of 9 tons.
The burial ground dates from the Middle Bronze Age between 2000-1600 BCE and remained active until the Early Iron Age around 900 BCE.
The central area features 40 stones forming a circle around a stone chamber tomb, indicating the burial location of important individuals from ancient times.
The archaeological site spreads across 7 hectares on an elevated plateau, with stone structures featuring drilled holes that researchers continue to examine.
The arrangement of vertical basalt stones extends for 300 meters, creating geometric patterns that researchers study for potential astronomical purposes.
Location: Sisian
Website: http://carahunge.com
GPS coordinates: 39.55070,46.02860
Latest update: May 11, 2025 10:32
Stone circles stand among humanity's earliest architectural accomplishments, constructed by prehistoric communities across Europe and beyond over thousands of years. These circular arrangements of standing stones served multiple purposes, functioning as astronomical observatories where ancient peoples tracked celestial movements, seasonal changes, and solar events. The monuments also acted as communal gathering spaces for ceremonies, trade, and social activities. The engineering skills required to transport, raise, and position these massive stones—some weighing several tons—reveal the sophisticated organizational capabilities and technical knowledge of Neolithic and Bronze Age societies. This collection spans numerous locations throughout Europe. In England, Stonehenge features precisely arranged upright stones forming a 98-foot (30-meter) circle built between 3000 and 2000 BC, while the Avebury complex measures 1,086 feet (331 meters) across and dates to 2850 BC. Scotland hosts several significant sites, including the Callanish Stones with a central monolith standing 16 feet (4.8 meters) tall, and the Ring of Brodgar, which originally contained 60 stones encircled by a 30-foot (9-meter) wide ditch. The Castlerigg Stone Circle sits surrounded by Lake District peaks, constructed around 3000 BC. Beyond the British Isles, Germany's Goseck Circle demonstrates astronomical alignment dating to 4900 BC, making it one of the oldest known structures of its kind. Ireland's Drombeg Stone Circle uses 17 stones to mark solstice positions. Each site provides insight into how prehistoric communities observed the heavens, marked time, and organized their societies around these enduring monuments.
Armenia's historical and natural sites showcase a rich heritage. Medieval monasteries like Tatev and Geghard overlook mountain valleys. Ancient temples include Garni and the cathedral of Echmiadzin. The country has high-altitude fortresses, prehistoric caves, and notable geological formations such as the Debed Canyon. Lake Sevan and national parks complement this region between mountains and valleys, marked by religious history and traditional architecture.
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