Thousands gather at Stonehenge to celebrate winter solstice

Thousands gathered at Stonehenge on December 21 to celebrate the winter solstice, marking the shortest day of the year. Despite cloudy skies, attendees cheered and participated in drumming and chanting as dawn broke at 8:09 a.m. The event highlighted themes of renewal and reflection as the days will gradually lengthen until summer. Stonehenge, built around 5,000 years ago, continues to intrigue researchers regarding its purpose and significance. Recent studies suggest Stonehenge may have had both political and spiritual roles. Discoveries indicate that some stones originated from distant locations, hinting at a possible unifying function for the diverse peoples of ancient Britain.