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Monday, 10 February, 2003, 19:13 GMT

'King of Stonehenge' from Europe

Archaeologists say the skeleton of an archer found at Stonehenge could be from Switzerland, Austria or Germany.

Tests on the man's teeth have revealed he was a settler from central Europe, born in the Alps.

The grave was uncovered last year three miles from the site, revealing a complete skeleton and 100 items including gold earrings, copper knives and pottery.

The man - dubbed "The King of Stonehenge" and whose skeletal remains date back to 2,300BC - was aged 35-45.

'Continental help'

Archaeologist Andrew Fitzpatrick said: "He would have been a very important person in the Stonehenge area.

"It is fascinating to think that someone from abroad could have played an important part in the construction of the site."

Tony Trueman from Wessex Archaeology added: "This is important proof that culture imported from the continent helped bring Britain out of the Stone Age."

The archer and the grave will feature in '"King of Stonehenge": A Meet The Ancestors Special' on BBC 2 at 2100 GMT on 19 February.


Related to this story:
Home found for ill-fated Bluestone (28 Dec 02 | Wales) Stonehenge tunnel approved (10 Dec 02 | England) Major cash boost for ancient monument (31 Jul 02 | England)


Internet links: BBC - Stonehenge | Wessex Archaeology | English Heritage
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