SHEFFIELD, England, June 22 (UPI) -- Stonehenge was the center of ancient Britain and the monument was meant to symbolize the unification of eastern and western communities, researchers say.
Speculation as to the monument's purpose -- ancient astronomical observatory, temple for ritual sacrifice, spiritual center -- has swirled around Stonehenge for centuries. Now researchers from five British universities said their study suggests it may have been built as a sign of peace between people from the east and west of the country after resolution of a period of warfare and regional differences.