Standing Stones in West Penwith

Standing stones, called menhirs in Cornwall, are found scattered all over the Penwith landscape. They date from the Bronze Age, circa2500 – 1600 BC and range in height from five to fifteen feet. Like most ancient sites, their purpose is unknown, but it seems likely that menhirs would have had a ritualistic function marking burial sites or important events. They may also mark ancient boundaries, tribal territories or pathways.