Ep 10. Stonehenge Decoded

In the tenth and final episode of the first season of National Geographic Specials, viewers are taken to the mystical site of Stonehenge. With its massive stones standing stoically for millennia, Stonehenge has long been a point of fascination for historians, archaeologists, and laypeople alike. But what do the stones mean? Who put them there, and for what purpose?

This episode, titled "Stonehenge Decoded," seeks to answer these questions using a variety of tools and techniques. The episode begins by exploring the history of Stonehenge - when it was built, who may have been involved in its construction, and what the surrounding area was like at the time. To do this, the show's producers interview numerous experts in the field of archaeology, including scientists who have painstakingly excavated around the site for years.

Throughout the episode, viewers are taken on a journey through time, as the show's producers and interviewees piece together the story of Stonehenge's construction and use. One of the most compelling parts of the episode is its use of computer-generated imagery (CGI) to create a virtual model of the site as it may have looked when it was first constructed. This allows viewers to get a sense of the incredible feat of engineering that would have been required to move and position the massive stones.

As the episode progresses, viewers learn about the various theories that have been put forth over the years to explain the purpose of Stonehenge. Were the stones used as a site for ancient healing rituals, as some have claimed? Or were they intended to serve as a massive astronomical calendar, helping ancient peoples track the movements of the stars and planets?

The episode doesn't shy away from exploring some of the more outlandish theories that have been put forth over the years. For example, some have claimed that the stones were brought to the site by extraterrestrial beings, while others have suggested that they were created by a lost civilization that was far more advanced than any that existed in ancient Britain.

Despite the numerous theories that have been put forth, "Stonehenge Decoded" ultimately settles on what the producers and their interviewees see as the likeliest explanation: that the site was indeed used as an astronomical calendar, but that it also served a number of other purposes as well. For example, the stones may have been used as a site for healing rituals or as a gathering place for members of different tribes and communities.

Throughout the episode, viewers are treated to stunning shots of the site at various times throughout the day and year. They see the stones bathed in the golden light of dawn, illuminated by the moon at night, and shrouded in mist on a cold winter morning. The show's producers make use of time-lapse photography, aerial footage, and other techniques to capture the essence of the site and convey its grandeur and mystery.

Overall, "Stonehenge Decoded" is a fascinating and expertly produced exploration of one of the world's most enigmatic and awe-inspiring landmarks. The episode succeeds in shedding new light on the history and purpose of Stonehenge while also leaving room for the continued exploration and interpretation of this remarkable site.