Cornish stone circles contain 19 stones reflecting 18.6-year lunar cycle. Stone circles in West Penwith all have 19 stones 19 represents the nearest whole number to the 18.6-year lunar standstill cycle 19 also represents the Metonic cycle where Sun and Moon return to same position in sky after 19 years
Stone circles in West Penwith, Cornwall consistently contain 19 stones, matching both the 18.6-year lunar standstill cycle and the 19-year Metonic cycle. At Merry Maidens, a processional route connects two circles, multiple standing stones, ending at Bora farm — Cornish for 'place of the witch.' Ancient peoples were clearly in tune with lunar movements!
Key Facts
- Stone circles in West Penwith all have 19 stones
- 19 represents the nearest whole number to the 18.6-year lunar standstill cycle
- 19 also represents the Metonic cycle where Sun and Moon return to same position in sky after 19 years
- Merry Maidens, stone circle has 19 stones connected by processional way to Goon Rith standing stone
- The processional route includes two stone circles, two standing stones, and ends at Bora farm (Cornish for 'place of the witch')
- Mên-an-Tol was originally part of a stone circle with 19 stones discovered during excavation
- Boscawen stone circle also has 19 stones with a central quartz stone known for healing
Source: Cheryl Straffon | Megalithic Mysteries of Cornwall | Megalithomania 2007 | AUDIO by MegalithomaniaUK