The Ancients Seahenge
Jun 26, 2025
Dr. Sue Greaney, a leading expert on prehistoric monuments, returns to delve into the mysteries of Seahenge, a remarkable 4,000-year-old timber circle found on a Norfolk beach. She discusses its enigmatic origins and the ancient rituals it may have held. The podcast uncovers insights from dendrochronology and explores the cultural significance of this Bronze Age site, including possible astronomical connections. Greaney also highlights the advanced woodworking techniques of the era and the intimate relationship its creators had with their environment.
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Seahenge Is A Timber Circle
- Seahenge is a timber circle, not a traditional henge monument like Stonehenge.
- It was originally built inland near a freshwater wet area, now revealed by coastal erosion.
Rare Timber Preservation
- Timber monuments rarely survive millennia, making Seahenge uniquely valuable.
- Seahenge's preservation offers rare insight into prehistoric above-ground timber construction.
Race Against Tides for Excavation
- Excavation had to be done between tides with limited time each day, requiring pumps to keep water out.
- Timbers were promptly preserved in water tanks to prevent decay after excavation.