The ancient site called Rujm el-Hiri, which means ‘Wheel of Ghosts,’ is located on the Golan Heights plateau in southwest Syria. It is a fascinating monument that was once believed to be an astronomical observatory.
Some studies suggested that Rujm el-Hiri was built to observe stars. However, a new study shows this might not be true. Researchers from Tel Aviv University and Ben-Gurion University found that Rujm el-Hiri has moved over thousands of years. It no longer lines up with the stars as it used to.
The team used different methods to investigate the site. They studied the magnetic signs in the ground, looked at changes in the land, and used satellite images.
The research suggests that people started building Rujm el-Hiri as far back as 4500 BCE. The site has a central stone mound surrounded by circles of basalt stones. It covers about 150 meters. Researchers think it may have also served as a gathering space or fort.
This study helps us learn more about ancient sites and can help find similar structures in other places.
Vocabulary List:
- Astronomical /ˌæs.trəˈnɑː.mɪ.kəl/ (adjective): Relating to astronomy or the observation of celestial bodies.
- Observatory /əbˈzɜːr.və.tɔːr.i/ (noun): A building or place from which people can observe astronomical events.
- Research /ˈriː.sɜːrtʃ/ (noun): The systematic investigation into and study of materials and sources to establish facts and reach new conclusions.
- Investigate /ɪnˈvɛs.tɪ.ɡeɪt/ (verb): To carry out research or study into a subject to discover facts or information.
- Magnitude /ˈmæɡ.nɪ.tjuːd/ (noun): The size extent or importance of something often used to refer to celestial bodies.
- Structures /ˈstrʌk.tʃərz/ (noun): The arrangement of and relations between the parts or elements of something complex.
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