Figures in the Rock? Experiencing the Avebury Cove at the Midsummer Sunrise

Empirical observations reveal that the Avebury Cove, a group of stones within the classic henge at Avebury, UK, is aligned with the midsummer sunrise. Contrary to published accounts suggesting no solstitial alignments, the Cove opens towards the sunrise position on Monkton Down, which is central in its field of view. A dip in the henge bank and a round barrow on the skyline emphasize this point on the horizon. The Cove also provides a stage-like setting where shadows are cast sharply onto the backstone for about 30 minutes after sunrise, drawing parallels with animistic ceremonial practices.

Darvill, T. (2023). Figures in the Rock? Experiencing the Avebury Cove at the Midsummer Sunrise. Journal of Skyscape Archaeology, 8(2), 279–290. https://doi.org/10.1558/jsa.25600