Archaeologists say they have confirmed that a vast circle of giant pits near Stonehenge was carved by humans more than 4,000 years ago.
The Durrington pit circle, thought to be over a mile wide, contains around 20 huge pits, some measuring up to 10 metres across and 5 metres deep. It was first identified in 2020, but some experts questioned whether the features were natural.
A new study using advanced geophysical tools, soil dating and ancient DNA analysis found repeating, structured patterns in the sediments that researchers say could not have formed naturally. The team concluded the pits were deliberately dug by Neolithic people in the late Stone Age.
Researchers believe the monument may have had spiritual significance, possibly linked to beliefs about an underworld, and describe it as one of the most extraordinary prehistoric structures ever found in Britain.
