The Dolmen of Menga in Spain is an ancient megalithic monument dating back around 6,000 years. It is considered one of the largest from the Neolithic period in Europe.
A new study finds that its construction would have required a sophisticated understanding of engineering and physics by its Neolithic builders. They displayed highly skilled knowledge.
The dolmen’s largest capstone weighs around 150 metric tons. Transporting and placing such gigantic stones oriented with millimeter precision shows the builders’ mastery of concepts like friction, acceleration, and counterweighting.
The asymmetric wall design and alignment with solstices demonstrates intentional engineering. Stones were sourced over 1 km away, showing quarrying ability.
Deep sockets where stones meet bedrock helped stabilize the structure and preclude need for ramps in placement. Pillars inside further redistribute structural stresses.
The trapezoidal chamber design with inward-leaning walls enabled use of smaller capstones. This reveals ingenious solutions to challenges of weight distribution and stress.
Researchers conclude the Dolmen of Menga represents not only advanced Neolithic engineering but also a significant step in early human scientific development and understanding.
Source: Science Alert
