Why Was Stonehenge Not Built Near the Thames River in London?

The enigmatic Stonehenge, one of the most iconic megalithic structures in the world, has long puzzled historians and archaeologists. A fascinating question often arises: Why was Stonehenge not built near the Thames River in London, which is now the heart of modern-day England, and why was it constructed in its current location in Wiltshire?

Historical Context and Prehistoric Britain

London, as we know it today, did not exist during the time when Stonehenge was built. London was founded approximately in 43 CE, long after the construction of Stonehenge. At that time, Stonehenge was around 2,500 years old, a testament to its impressive longevity in the prehistoric landscape.

Stonehenge’s Construction Period

Stonehenge was built in phases over several centuries. The early phase was likely an earthwork enclosure dating back to around 3000 BCE, used for the burial of cremated remains. The unique stone circle was erected in the late Neolithic period, around 2500 BCE, using locally sourced Sarsen stones. This places Stonehenge firmly in the Neolithic period, long before the advent of urban settlements like London.

Accessibility and Strategic Location

One of the key questions regarding Stonehenge's location is why it was built in its current location, rather than near the Thames River in the growing metropolis of London. The answer lies in the strategic location and purpose of its construction.

Stonehenge’s position on Salisbury Plain provided a clear, open space that was ideal for its construction. The nearby Woodhenge, another Neolithic monument, also sits on a similar plain, indicating that the choice of location was likely due to its natural, flat terrain and visibility. Such a location would have been crucial for its intended ceremonial and astronomical purposes.

Geographical and Cultural Context

During the Neolithic period, settlements in southern England were numerous and varied. Stonehenge was just one of many significant Neolithic sites in the region. Its location on Salisbury Plain was chosen for the practicality of the land and the symbolic importance of the area, rather than proximity to urban centers.

Salisbury Plain offered a naturally clear and spacious area, free from heavy vegetation and urban development. This made the site an ideal location for a monument that would serve both practical and spiritual purposes. The builders would have utilized the land resources efficiently, which was crucial in the absence of modern construction tools and machinery.

The Myth of London’s Early Existence

Sometimes, the narrative about the early existence of London can be misleading. The academic and literary traditions that speak of an ancient city in the Thames Valley are often fictional or exaggerated. Stonehenge, on the other hand, is a real monument located in what is now Wiltshire, England, and remains in that location precisely because it was built there for a specific purpose.

The concept of a mythical London created in academic circles often conflates historical accuracy with romanticized visions of ancient civilizations. Stonehenge, in contrast, provides tangible evidence of Neolithic architectural achievements and the life of prehistoric people.

Conclusion

Stonehenge was not built near the Thames River in London because the Thames was not a populated or significant urban center at the time of its construction. Instead, it was built in Salisbury Plain based on the practical and symbolic advantages of the location. This isolated site provided a clear space for construction and remained unchanged for thousands of years, making it a unique and enduring testament to the Neolithic period.