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Heart of Neolithic Orkney UNESCO World Heritage Site

By , About.com Guide

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The Standing Stones of Stenness
The Standing Stones of Stenness, Orkney, Scotland

The Standing Stones of Stenness, Orkney, Scotland

©Visit Orkney
Just outside the circle of the Standing Stones of Stenness, the wind turned my yellow rain slicker into a kite. I was astonished at the swans, serene on a nearby lake in the driving rain.

Once inside the 4000-5000 year old circle, however, the air mysteriously calmed. John Grieve, our guide, pointed out the acoustics of the site. Speakers positioned before what he gruesomely identified as the "defleshing table" would have their voices amplified impressively.

John brought a pair of dowsing rods and each of us stepped into the circle holding them. As we crossed the imaginary line between the stones, the dowsing rods came together. Skeptic though I am, I have to admit that, when I crossed the line with my eyes closed, the rods came together and then apart in my hands. Spooky!

Essentials

  • An outdoor site that is freely accessible
  • Wheelchair accessible
  • There is a nearby bird hide for wildlife watching
  • Website

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