Ancient Skies, Sacred Stones: An Introduction to Archaeoastronomical Methods and Interpretations

Archaeoastronomy reveals the profound integration of celestial observations into ancient societies, demonstrating their sophistication and cultural significance. By analyzing astronomical alignments in architecture, researchers reconstruct past worldviews and ritual practices, overcoming limitations of written records. The study highlights how ancient observers, with a geocentric perspective, meticulously tracked celestial phenomena such as solstices and equinoxes, which were integral to calendars, governance, and social structure. Monuments like Stonehenge and the megalithic temples of Malta showcase this early connection, with solar alignments serving as 'hierophanies'—manifestations of the sacred that reinforced religious order. The research combines modern surveying techniques with cultural analysis, refining our understanding of how ancient societies perceived and utilized the cosmos.

Borkakoty, B. (2026). Ancient Skies, Sacred Stones: An Introduction to Archaeoastronomical Methods and Interpretations. Journal of Social Science and Humanities, 8(1), 93–98. https://doi.org/10.53469/jssh.2026.8(01).19