Stone circle in Scotland, once thought to be ancient, turns out to be a 1990s replica

Archaeologists were excited last year when they discovered a Stonehenge-like stone circle on farmland in rural Scotland.

Recumbent stone circles, like this recent discovery, date back between 3,500 and 4,500 years and are distinctive to northeastern Scotland, as noted by Aberdeenshire Council.

Neil Ackerman, the council’s historic environment record assistant, commented that this new site enhances our understanding of these rare monuments and the region's prehistoric archaeology, stressing that it's uncommon for such sites to remain undiscovered for so long, especially in such excellent condition.

However, the excitement quickly faded to embarrassment when the former farm owner revealed in January that he had constructed the monument himself in the 1990s.

In response to the discovery, the council stated that research on the site had been “abruptly ended.”

Ackerman explained on the council’s website that dating such monuments is notoriously challenging. The council initially found the site unusual due to its small diameter and relatively small stones.

The council added that recumbent stone circles are highly varied, so the differences discovered in this one weren't immediately concerning.

“It’s disappointing to learn about this turn of events, but it also adds an intriguing twist to the story,” Ackerman remarked. “I hope the stones continue to be appreciated – although not ancient, it’s still in a stunning location and remains a remarkable feature in the landscape.”

According to Scotland’s Forestry Commission, recumbent stone circles are named for the large stone laid on its side within the circle. Up to 99 examples of these circles have been discovered across Scotland.

The Forestry Commission stated, “We believe ancient cultures may have used these circles to track the seasons, or the movements of the sun and moon. They could have been sites for funerary rituals or ceremonial bonfires. Regardless of their purpose, these circles have captivated people for generations.”