The deserts of Jordan and Syria are home to an ancient mystery that has puzzled archaeologists and historians for decades. A series of massive stone circles, visible from aerial images, has been a subject of fascination and intrigue due to their size, precision, and the mystery surrounding their purpose.
The Massive Stone Circles
These stone circles, scattered across the desert plains of Jordan with one just over the border in Syria, are impressive in their scale and construction. Unlike some other ancient stone structures known for their finely cut stones, these circles are made up of rougher rocks. Yet, their sheer size and the precision with which they are laid out is remarkable. The smallest of these circles measures about 720 feet (219.5 meters) in diameter, while the largest extends over 1,450 feet (442 meters) across. They all stand between three and five feet (0.9-1.5 meters) in height.
No Entrances
One of the most intriguing aspects of these circles is the absence of any openings or entrances. This characteristic rules out several potential uses, such as open pits, graves, or rudimentary stadiums, and makes it unlikely that they were used for containing livestock. The lack of gates or doors adds to the enigma of their purpose.
Precision of Construction
The precision with which these circles were constructed is astonishing. They are laid out in nearly perfect circles, a feat that seems to rival even modern-day GPS technology. This precision points to a high level of skill and planning by the ancient people who built them.
Dating the Circles
Archaeologists estimate that these stone structures date back to somewhere between 4500 BC and 2000 BC. However, this broad timeframe of 2,500 years offers little in the way of narrowing down their exact age or the cultural context in which they were built. The period in question saw significant changes and developments in the region, leaving researchers to speculate about the circles’ origins and purpose.
Impact of Modern Development
It is believed that there were originally more stone circles in the region, but some have been lost due to the development of modern towns and settlements. The remaining dozen sites are now protected to prevent further destruction.
Despite continued research and study, the purpose and function of these stone circles remain a mystery. Their scale, precision, and the mystery of their use continue to fascinate scientists and laypeople alike. These structures stand as a testament to the ingenuity and skill of ancient civilizations and serve as a reminder of the many mysteries of human history that are yet to be fully understood.
