An archaeologist’s comments on prehistoric European astronomy

Abstract

The study of prehistoric astronomy still has difficulties. Its academic discipline, called archaeoastronomy is still contending for high scientific value. As archaeoastronomy is the study of the astronomical practices, celestial lore, mythologies, religions and world-views of all ancient cultures, results of archaeological research are essential to its investigations. In prehistoric Europe the surveys of the megalithic monuments have enhanced the interest in prehistoric sky and stimulate archaeoastronomical research. The archaeological material remains can always offer novel notions to be developed in order to enrich the general picture of prehistoric astronomy. The purpose of the study is to present case studies on prehistoric sky lore and its impact on societies, in addition to emphasise the essential role of archaeology in archaeoastronomical investigations and interpretations.