Stonehenge: Secrets of the New Stone

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Summary

Actor Jason Watkins and historian Tracy Borman investigate the final mystery of Stonehenge - the secret of the altar stone, a six-ton slab at the heart of Stonehenge that has puzzled archaeologists for centuries. It's the only stone that lies flat on its side, a different type from all the others, and whose origins are still unknown. In a TV first, Jason and Tracy reveal new research from Aberystwyth University about the origins of the stone

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Gill Crawford

Historian Tracy Borman and actor Jason Watkins take a break from their usual work together describing the workings of the Tower of London and head south-west to Wiltshire. They’ve come to examine the one part of Stonehenge that rubbernecking drivers on the A303 and most visitors don’t see, the altar stone, which is now largely submerged under two fallen giant sarsen stones.

It’s in a prominent position, aligned with the summer/winter solstices and clearly important, but its composition is entirely different from the other stones. So where did it come from, how did it get here and why? Geologists and archaeologists gently feed the pair clues, as they travel to south Wales, Aberdeenshire and Orkney, to learn the amazing links between ancient sites. And while Tracy gets detailed in the lab, Jason tries pulling giant stones on a sled and is very polite about a Neolithic stew he’s served up.

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rolenameExecutive producerSarah SarkhelSeries producerSimon SmithDirectorSimon SmithProducerSimon Smith

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