Were menhirs the ancient GPS?

Imagine living in an era without Google Maps or GPS. How did ancient people navigate? Menhirs, those tall standing stones, might have been their reference points! In Spain, at the stunning Antequera site, archaeologists are studying these megalithic monuments to understand if menhirs, like dolmens, were crucial for navigating the territory. Using modern technologies such as photogrammetry and geophysical prospection, they are analyzing the rock these menhirs are made of and where they come from. A true journey through time to uncover the secrets of our ancestors!

Archaeologists are using advanced techniques like Reflectance Transformation Imaging (RTI) to detect engravings and paintings on menhirs. This method captures details invisible to the naked eye, revealing precious information about the culture and beliefs of ancient populations. Additionally, the use of GIS (Geographic Information Systems) helps map and analyze the distribution of menhirs in the territory, providing crucial data on their function and meaning. Geological analyses are identifying the rock sources used to build the menhirs, offering clues about how they were transported and worked. These studies not only enrich our understanding of the past but also show how modern technology can shed light on ancient traditions.