The Menga dolmen, an ancient megalithic monument located in southern Spain, showcases the advanced scientific understanding of Neolithic people, particularly in physics and geology.
This monumental structure is one of the earliest known European megaliths, believed to have been built between 3600 and 3800 BC. Its impressive roofed enclosure is made from 32 massive stones, including one that exceeds 130 tonnes—significantly heavier than the largest stones at Stonehenge, constructed over a millennium later.
Experts emphasize the awe-inspiring nature of the Menga dolmen. “The sheer size of the stones invokes a powerful sense of wonder, and this impression persists even today,” noted one researcher involved in the analysis.
A team of scientists has carried out comprehensive geological and archaeological assessments of the dolmen to uncover the knowledge required for its construction in Antequera. Interestingly, the rocks used in Menga are a type of fragile sandstone, which posed risks of breaking. However, the researchers determined that the builders skillfully shaped the stones to create a remarkably stable structure.
According to researchers, the Neolithic builders had to ensure that the blocks fit tightly together, likening their work to a game of Tetris. “The precision in how each stone interlocks suggests a rudimentary understanding of angles,” explained one expert.
Furthermore, the massive stone that forms part of the roof was meticulously shaped to rise in the center and decline at the edges, mimicking the stability of an arch and enhancing its strength. “This could be the first documented use of the arch principle in history,” said a researcher.
While the specific purpose of the Menga dolmen remains unknown, its alignment generates distinct patterns of light during the summer solstice. Additionally, the stones are safeguarded from water damage by layers of carefully compacted clay, further demonstrating the builders’ architectural expertise.
“This evidence indicates that the builders possessed a profound understanding of geology and the properties of their materials,” stated a researcher. “Combined, these elements represent a form of scientific knowledge that includes engineering, physics, and astronomy.”
Although there are similar Neolithic structures in France, the construction methods of Menga remain unparalleled in Iberia and western Europe. “The sophistication of this structure is indeed remarkable,” observed another expert. “It reflects an advanced architectural comprehension that is not commonly seen.”
