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Stonehenge was Glastonbury of its day

Researchers said around 4,000 people would have gathered at the site each year. Credit: Eye Ubiquitous/Press Association Images

Stonehenge was not built for astronomy but was constructed by thousands of people who flocked to the area for the ancient equivalent of Glastonbury festival, researchers have said.

Experts said the placement of the enormous stones united people from across Britain who joined together for mass feasts and to celebrate the winter solstice.

The findings come after a decade of research from University College London which included excavations, laboratory work and the analysis of 63 ancient human remains.

Professor Mike Parker Pearson, who led the team, said the findings overturn the belief that Stonehenge was built as an astronomical calendar or observatory.

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Stonehenge turned into a fire garden for London 2012

Stonehenge London 2012
The World Heritage site was illuminated by candles and fire sculptures. Credit: Chris Ison/PA Wire
Stonehenge London 2012
The display is part of the London 2012 Festival and will run for three consecutive nights. Credit: Chris Ison/PA Wire
Stonehenge London 2012
The festival is part of a cultural celebration and is linked to this summer's Olympic Games. Credit: Chris Ison/PA Wire

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