Life after Life. Cultural Context and Perception of Megaliths in Prehistory and Modern Times Based on Selected Sources.

Megaliths are monumental structures that rank among the most fascinating and spectacular artefacts of European prehistory. The word “megalith” is derived from the Greek: megas, meaning “great” and lithos, meaning “stone,” thus literally translating to “a great stone.” The term “megalith” was first employed in the early 19th century to denote such monuments. Numerous megalithic constructions emerged not only across Europe but also in other parts of the world, including Africa, Asia, the Americas, and Oceania. In Europe, their chronology spans approximately from 5000 to 2000 BC, though their development persisted longer in some Mediterranean regions. For over 500 years, these monumental structures have captivated antiquarians and archaeologists alike, serving as key subjects of inquiry into prehistoric societies. The cultural context of megaliths is exceptionally intriguing. These monuments held immense significance not only for their creators and their immediate descendants but also for societies hundreds or even thousands of years later. Megaliths have inspired a wide range of emotional responses, awe, curiosity, fascination and fear. These reactions are reflected in diverse sources, such as archaeological evidence, written texts, iconography, folklore and toponymy. The aim of this presentation is to demonstrate, through selected examples from across Europe, how megaliths have persisted in cultural traditions and collective human consciousness. Furthermore, it explores their transformation into one of the most enduring and significant elements of European archaeological heritage.