megalüütid

Megalüütid are large stone structures, typically prehistoric, built from one or more massive undressed stones. The term is derived from the Greek words "megas" meaning great and "lithos" meaning stone. These structures are found across various cultures and geographical locations worldwide, indicating a common human impulse to create monumental constructions.

The most well-known examples of megalithic structures include dolmens, menhirs, and stone circles. Dolmens are typically considered to be ancient tombs, consisting of two or more upright stones supporting a large flat capstone. Menhirs, also known as standing stones, are single upright monolithic stones, often erected in lines or circles. Stone circles, like Stonehenge, are arrangements of large stones, often forming a circular or semi-circular pattern.

The exact purpose and construction methods of megalithic sites remain subjects of scholarly debate. Theories suggest they served various functions, including astronomical observatories, religious sites, territorial markers, or burial monuments. The effort and ingenuity required to transport and erect these massive stones, often weighing many tons, without modern machinery, point to sophisticated social organization and engineering capabilities in prehistoric societies. The enduring presence of megalithic structures continues to fascinate and inspire awe, serving as tangible links to humanity's distant past.