Windmill Hill, Avebury
Sightseeing attraction | Swindon | England | United Kingdom
Windmill Hill at Avebury in Wiltshire, England, is a significant prehistoric site and is considered the largest known Neolithic earthwork in Britain. The site is located approximately 1.5 kilometers northwest of the village of Avebury and is part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site "Stonehenge, Avebury, and Associated Sites".
History and Archaeological Significance
The earliest human activities at Windmill Hill can be dated back to around 3800 BC. During this early phase, pits were dug, which were likely used by an agricultural community. Around 3700 BC, the characteristic structure of the site was established: three concentric, segmented ditches with intervening earthworks, interrupted by narrow causeways. This construction is typical of Neolithic earthworks and may have served ceremonial or communal purposes.
Excavations at Windmill Hill unearthed a variety of artifacts, including pottery fragments, animal bones, and flint tools. The finds suggest repeated phases of use spanning several centuries. Particularly noteworthy is the large quantity of animal bones, which may indicate communal feasting, animal trading, or ritual activities.
Later Uses and Alterations
After the main Neolithic phase of use, Windmill Hill was sporadically utilized. In the Bronze Age, around 2000 BC, a "Bell Barrow" was constructed within the existing structures, indicating the ongoing significance of the site.
Over the centuries, the site was forgotten until the 20th century when archaeological investigations brought it back into the public consciousness. The first systematic excavations were carried out in the 1920s by Alexander Keiller and Harold St George Gray, who highlighted the importance of Windmill Hill for understanding Neolithic culture in Britain.
Current Significance and Visitor Experience
Today, Windmill Hill is a protected archaeological area that offers visitors the opportunity to explore the remains of this prehistoric site. Although the earthworks have eroded over time, the concentric ditches and banks are still visible, providing a sense of the original size and complexity of the site.
A visit to Windmill Hill allows visitors to delve into the early history of human settlement in southern England and appreciate the impressive achievements of Neolithic communities. The elevated location also offers a wide view of the surrounding landscape, including the nearby Avebury Stone Circle, highlighting the strategic importance of the site.
Windmill Hill is a fascinating testimony to Britain's prehistoric past and a rewarding destination for those interested in archaeology and history.
