This monument, consisting of a circular mound 4m (12') high enclosing a ditch originally some 9m (27') deep was most likely in use between2500 and 2000 BC.

Inside the ditch is an outer stone circle of 100 stones, the weight of each is around 15 tons. There are two smaller circles within - the Northern and Southern circles, which may predate the main earthworks.

There were 4 entrances through the bank and ditch.

For many, Avebury is an intensely spiritual place, something that poor Stonehenge has lost in its current visiting arrangements. Here you can wander at your own pace and enjoy the atmosphere. There are plenty of places in the village and the visitor centre for refreshments and other necessities and there is a good walk if you want to follow the route of the Beckhampton Avenue to Long Stone Long Barrow or the West Kennet Avenue to the Sanctuary.

Nearby is Silbury Hill and West Kennet Long Barrow. One can only imagine the importance of this place and the impact it would have made on visitors. Like Stonehenge, Avebury said "We built this, because we could" and would have been not just a ceremonial or ritual place, but a statement of power and wealth.

Also nearby is one of the most ancient man-made places of all - the causewayed enclosure at Windmill Hill, built about 3500 to 3400 BC and located near a settlement an astonishing 5700 years ago.

Avebury is a must-see for anyone and a definite candidate for must-see-again.

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