Karahunj Observatory
Photo: Sarkisianarto, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Carahunge, also known as Zorats Karer, stands as one of the world's most enigmatic prehistoric stone circles, featuring over 200 basalt standing stones scattered across a high plateau near Sisan in Armenia's Syunik Province. Many of these ancient megaliths, some reaching heights of up to 3 meters, contain precisely drilled holes that appear to align with various celestial bodies. The site spans approximately 7 hectares at an elevation of about 1,770 meters above sea level, offering commanding views of the surrounding Armenian Highlands. Often called the "Armenian Stonehenge," this mysterious complex predates its British counterpart and represents one of the earliest known astronomical observation sites in human history.
Timeline
Earliest possible dating of initial stone arrangements based on some archaeological theories
Most widely accepted construction period for the main stone circle configuration
Systematic archaeological investigations begin under Soviet-era research programs
Radio astronomer Paris Herouni conducts detailed astronomical alignment studies
International recognition grows as site becomes known as 'Armenian Stonehenge'
What the Show Claims
- ›Ancient mountain observatories in the Armenian highlands may have been used by extraterrestrials to monitor EarthS06E11
- ›The site represents celestial knowledge imparted by alien visitors to ancient peoplesS06E11
- ›The precisely drilled holes in the stones indicate advanced technology beyond the capabilities of Bronze Age civilizations
What Archaeology Says
Archaeological investigations at Carahunge have revealed a complex site with multiple construction phases spanning millennia. The standing stones, carved from local basalt, show evidence of deliberate placement and astronomical orientation, with many featuring carefully drilled holes ranging from 4 to 5 centimeters in diameter. Radio astronomer Paris Herouni's detailed studies in the 1990s identified potential alignments with bright stars like Deneb and various constellations, though these findings remain debated within the archaeological community.
Excavations have uncovered ancient petroglyphs, Bronze Age burial sites, and evidence of sustained human activity throughout different historical periods. Some researchers have identified what they believe to be astronomical observation chambers formed by the holed stones, while others suggest the site served multiple functions including religious ceremonies and seasonal calendrical observations. The precision of the stone drilling has particularly intrigued investigators, as creating such uniform holes in hard basalt would have required considerable skill and specialized tools.
The scientific consensus remains divided on Carahunge's primary purpose, with theories ranging from an ancient observatory to a ceremonial complex or burial ground. While astronomical alignments appear genuine, debates continue over whether these were intentional design features or coincidental arrangements. What remains undisputed is the site's significance as one of the world's oldest stone circle complexes, predating Stonehenge by approximately 3,500 years according to some estimates.
Many questions about Carahunge persist, including the exact methods used to transport and erect the massive stones, the purpose of the precisely drilled holes, and the relationship between different construction phases. The site's remote location and limited excavation funding have left large areas unexplored, meaning significant discoveries likely await future archaeological investigation.
Mysteries & Fun Facts
The site contains more standing stones than Stonehenge, with over 200 megaliths compared to Stonehenge's 87 original stones
Radio astronomer Paris Herouni identified 17 stones with holes that align with bright stars as they appeared in ancient times
The name 'Zorats Karer' translates to 'Speaking Stones' in Armenian, referring to the whistling sound wind makes through the drilled holes
Some of the stone holes appear to align with the summer solstice sunrise and winter solstice sunset positions
Planning a Visit
Carahunge is generally accessible to visitors year-round, located approximately 3 kilometers north of Sisan along a well-marked road through the Armenian countryside. The site offers self-guided exploration among the standing stones, though visitors should be prepared for high-altitude conditions and potentially challenging weather.
Goris, approximately 40 kilometers northeast of the site.
Late spring through early autumn (May to September) provides the most favorable weather conditions, with clear skies ideal for appreciating the site's astronomical alignments. Summer months offer the warmest temperatures but can be crowded with international tourists.
Related Sites
Gobekli Tepe
Both are ancient stone circle complexes that predate Stonehenge and show evidence of sophisticated astronomical knowledge
Avebury Stone Circle
Another prehistoric stone circle with potential astronomical alignments and mysterious construction techniques
Carnac Stones
Features thousands of prehistoric standing stones arranged in mysterious patterns across the Brittany landscape
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Historical data sourced from Wikipedia