
Stone Circle
Tomorrow marks the Winter Solstice. Beginning in the early morning hours, it marks the shortest day and longest night of the year in the Northern hemisphere. Being an event of significance in the allignment of the stones at Stonehenge, I thought this would be a good time to feature images of my visit there this past August.
The day I visited the site was a gloomy, dark one with no moments of sunshine whatsoever, so I have no iconic photos of the sun shining through the stones to show you. The crowd surrounding the stones created its own photographic challenge. I was nonetheless left in awe of their magnificence and the extraordinary feat of engineering that created the henge. Built in the Neolithic Period, between 3000 and 2000 years ago, with gigantic stones brought all the way from Wales, this accomplishment boggles the mind. And with so few clues as to its purpose and the culture that built it, it remains an intriguing and mystical glimpse into our past.
The approach to the stones was a long one. Seeing the tops of the stones appear filled me with such excitement, only to be dimmed somewhat by the enormous crowd surrounding them, everyone intent on capturing selfies.

First Sight

All Those Bright Dots
It took a while to circle completely around the stones, with every few steps offering up a new view and composition to contemplate. While it was disappointing to not be able to enter into the circle, it did make it easier to take photos and to absorb the splendour of the stones unimpeded by throngs of people. Below are a few close ups and stone vignettes.

Through the Circle

Beyond the Stones

Birds of a Feather

Capstones
A full view of the stones without people was nearly impossible but the next photos come close.

Full Circle

Standing Stones
Some more photos from that day can be found here.
Wishing everyone here a Happy Solstice, and may the lenghtening of days bring light, joy and love into your hearts and lives.