Description
Book SynopsisCountless reminders of prehistoric life still survive in the wide landscapes of Europe, but none are arguably as fascinating or awe-inspiring as the huge stone monuments built by its Neolithic and Bronze Age European societies. These ‘megalithic’ (after the Greek megas: great, and lithos: stone) structures can still be found scattered in their thousands across Europe, taking many different forms, but all providing a tentative and mysterious link to its distant past. From the Mediterranean to the colder climes of Scandinavia, this book takes readers on a journey through Europe, examining its diverse range of megalithic monuments, also looking at what insights these remarkable structures may provide into the ancient communities who were responsible for their construction.
Trade ReviewThis well-crafted book is an invaluable companion for anyone researching the ritual lives of our European Neolithic ancestors. Julian Heath brings together all the major Neolithic sites in one very informative volume; ideal for scholars and those researching our distant heritage. -- George Nash, Geosciences Centre, IPT, Coimbra University, Portugal
Creation of monuments is one of the important features of prehistoric societies. Julian Heath’s book offers and amazing and broadly accessible guide through the megalithic mind of our ancestors. The book is covering the prehistoric expressions of monumentality throughout Europe. This book is a valuable companion to all readers interested in our megalithic past. -- Dr. Jan Turek, Center for Theoretical Studies, Charles University, Prague, Editor-in-chief of Archaeologies-Journal of the World Archaeological Congress
Table of ContentsChapter 1. An Introduction to Megalithic Europe Chapter 2. The Heartland of Megalithic Europe Chapter 3. French and Swiss Megalithic Tombs Chapter 4. Megalithic Iberia Chapter 5. Megaliths of the Mediterranean Islands Chapter 6. The Stone Circles of Britain and Ireland Chapter 7. Stonehenge and Avebury Chapter 8. English Megalithic Tombs Chapter 9. Welsh Megalithic Tombs Chapter 10. Irish Megalithic Tombs Chapter 11. Scottish Megalithic Tombs Chapter 12. Megalithic Germany and Holland Chapter 13. Megalithic Scandinavia
