Ep 17. Nazi Stonehenge

In season 4, episode 17 of "What on Earth?" titled "Nazi Stonehenge," the team delves into one of the most extraordinary discoveries made in Germany in recent years. Viewers are taken to a remote forest location in the heart of Germany where a bizarre stone monument has been discovered. Shrouded in mystery and creepiness, the monument is a formation of stones known as the Externsteine, which is said to have hidden secrets related to Germanic Paganism, the Nazis, and the occult.

As the team investigates further, they discover how the Nazis had appropriated the site during World War II, as they had with so many other ancient artifacts across Europe, to validate their race theories and ideology. It is believed that Nazi officials were obsessed with the Externsteine and used it to promote their agenda, transforming a prehistoric, spiritual, and peaceful site into an instrument of racism, hatred, and propaganda.

The Externsteine monument itself is a sight to behold. It features a massive rock platform that is supported by complex stone pillars carved in various shapes and designs. There are chambers, caves, and strange niches in the monument, some of which are believed to have been used for rituals and sacrifices. The show's team is amazed by the monument's intricate details and advanced engineering, dating back more than 4000 years to the time of the Bronze Age.

The episode is a true roller coaster ride of mystery and intrigue, as the team tries to figure out what kind of rituals were conducted on the site and what the Nazis were seeking to gain from it. Some theories explored in the episode include the Nazis searching for ancient artifacts that might have given them supernatural powers, or perhaps they believed the monument had healing properties that could benefit their injured soldiers. As the team delves deeper into the research, they also explore recent theories that suggest the monument may have served as a calendar or solar observatory, used for seasonal and religious purposes.

Despite the sinister associations with Nazi ideology, the Externsteine continues to be a popular tourist spot and is visited by thousands of people each year. This episode features interviews with the people who regularly visit the site, including archaeologists, researchers, and tourists. They share their experiences with the monument, their interpretations of its history, and their thoughts on the controversy surrounding it.

Overall, "What on Earth?" season 4, episode 17 is a fascinating exploration of one of Germany's most mysterious and awe-inspiring ancient sites. It is a chilling reminder of how historical artifacts can be manipulated and used to justify unspeakable acts and ideologies. The episode is a perfect blend of history, archaeology, and mystery, sure to intrigue viewers to learn more about this incredible monument and its dark past.