The Menga Dolmen, a remarkable megalithic structure located in southern Spain, is an awe-inspiring testament to the engineering prowess of Neolithic societies. Dating back approximately 5,600 years, this monumental tomb comprises 32 colossal stones, each significantly larger than those found at the more famous Stonehenge in England. The largest stone weighs around 150 metric tons, comparable to the mass of a blue whale. Collectively, these stones amount to an astonishing 1,140 metric tons, showcasing the impressive capabilities of early humans in construction and design.
Situated on a hilltop that rises about 50 meters (165 feet) above the surrounding landscape, the Menga Dolmen spans approximately 25 meters (82 feet) in length and 5 meters (16.4 feet) in width. The structure is designed as a single-chamber tomb, which has intrigued archaeologists and historians alike. Leonardo García Sanjuán, a professor of prehistory at the University of Seville, emphasizes the enormity of the stones, likening their combined weight to that of two fully loaded Boeing 747 airplanes. This monumental achievement raises questions about the techniques employed by the builders during the Neolithic period.
A recent study published in the journal Science Advances sheds light on the sophisticated engineering methods utilized in the construction of the Menga Dolmen. Led by geologist José Antonio Lozano Rodríguez from the Canary Islands Oceanographic Center, the research team analyzed the topography and geology of the site, past archaeological findings, and historical accounts to understand how the massive stones were cut, transported, and assembled. The results reveal that the stones were placed with remarkable precision, leaning inward at a consistent angle of 84 to 85 degrees, creating a trapezoidal chamber that exemplifies the builders’ advanced understanding of geometry and structural integrity.
According to García Sanjuán, the construction process involved intricate planning and execution. The builders likely used tools akin to plumb levels and framing squares to ensure the stones fit together seamlessly, much like pieces in a game of Tetris. This meticulous approach was crucial, as even slight misalignments could lead to structural failures. The study suggests that the stones were initially embedded in deep foundation sockets, with up to one-third of each stone buried underground, providing additional stability to the structure.
Moreover, the construction of the dolmen involved a unique technique for placing the massive capstones. After erecting the walls, the builders added five enormous capstones to form the roof, subsequently excavating the earth to create a level floor. This innovative method not only enhanced the chamber's stability but also insulated it from harsh weather conditions, ensuring its preservation over millennia. The builders’ foresight in creating a solid and durable structure reflects their understanding of the environmental challenges posed by the region's seismic activity.
The Menga Dolmen likely served a dual purpose as both a temple and a tomb, although archaeological evidence of its use remains sparse. Parker-Pearson, a professor at University College London, posits that the monument's robust construction was intended to signify permanence, linking stone with the eternal. This notion resonates with other prehistoric megalithic structures across western Europe, which often served as lasting memorials for the deceased, housing their ancestors for eternity.
Research conducted by the same team also revealed insights into the transportation of the massive stones from a quarry located 850 meters (0.5 mile) away. The builders likely devised a trackway to facilitate the movement of the stones down a gentle slope, employing wooden sledges and ropes to maneuver the heavy blocks. This innovative approach highlights the ingenuity of the early Copper Age society in Iberia, showcasing their commitment to constructing a monument that would endure through the ages.
