Uncovering the Mystery of Neolithic Sun Stones: A Connection to a Volcanic Eruption in 2910 B.C.
In a groundbreaking new study published in the journal Antiquity, archaeologists have uncovered a fascinating connection between a volcanic eruption in 2910 B.C. and the burial of hundreds of stones decorated with plant and sun imagery by Neolithic people on the Danish island of Bornholm in the Baltic Sea.
The research, led by archaeologist Rune Iversen from the University of Copenhagen, details the discovery of 614 stone plaques and plaque fragments scattered throughout a palisade ditch on Bornholm. These stones, made primarily from black shale, quartz, and flint, were decorated with intricate incised designs, including sun and plant motifs.
Based on radiocarbon dating and pottery styles found nearby, the researchers concluded that these stones were deliberately placed around 2900 B.C. The sheer number of these “sun stones” found in one location prompted the team to investigate the reason behind this unique deposit.
The study suggests that Neolithic people buried these stones as a form of sacrifice to ensure sun and growth, particularly during a time of crisis triggered by a volcanic eruption in 2910 B.C. This natural disaster likely caused crop failures and adverse weather conditions across the Northern Hemisphere, leading to the need for a ritualistic offering to bring back the sun and restore agricultural production.
Following the stone deposit, the researchers observed a shift in cultural practices on Bornholm, with people transitioning to more fortified settlements and forming new social networks with neighboring regions. Despite these changes, the importance of the sun in agricultural societies remained paramount, highlighting the enduring significance of celestial bodies in ancient cultures.
Co-author Lasse Vilien Sørensen from the National Museum of Denmark described the discovery as “incredible,” noting parallels with similar sun-focused depositions during the climate crisis caused by a volcanic eruption in 536 AD. This study sheds light on the deep-rooted connection between environmental events, human rituals, and societal transformations in prehistoric Europe.
The findings underscore the resilience and adaptability of Neolithic communities in the face of natural disasters, offering valuable insights into the complex interplay between humans and their environment throughout history.