Prehistoric builders construct the “Devil’s Arrows,” a tall stone row in Yorkshire, using massive stones that had long been difficult to source. Recent research reported across several outlets finds that the stones were not taken from nearby glacial deposits, as some earlier explanations suggested, but were moved over distance.
The studies say the stones—about 25 tonnes each and standing roughly seven metres tall—are traced to Brimham Rocks, about 18 km (11 miles) away. Scientists base the conclusion on geological “fingerprints,” such as mineral grains preserved on the stones, which match the composition of the more distant outcrops.
Outlets also differ slightly in their reported time frame and added details. Some specify construction around 4,000–5,000 years ago. One report also claims an additional stone has been linked to a medieval cross found in Aldborough village, suggesting local folklore may preserve historical information. Other sources focus primarily on the transport distance and deliberate relocation implied by the findings.
