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Why is Stonehenge famous? Stonehenge's 10 Movie Mentions

Stonehenge has long been a subject of fascination and wonder. Stonehenge dates back to approximately 3000 BCE to 2000 BCE, making it one of the oldest known human-made structures. Its construction predates written history, and thus it serves as a significant archaeological site that offers insights into the lives and beliefs of prehistoric peoples.

 

Where have I seen Stonehenge before?

Stonehenge’s age and mystery have meant that photos of Stonehenge have been in most American history textbooks for decades. Its mysterious origins and enigmatic purpose have also made it a compelling backdrop for storytelling. Over the years, filmmakers have been captivated by its allure, incorporating Stonehenge into various movies and television shows. Why is Stonehenge Famous? Here we look at the 10 most iconic appearances of Stonehenge in film and television:

 

  1. “This Is Spinal Tap” (1984)

In this classic mockumentary about a fictional rock band, Stonehenge takes centre stage—literally. The band commissions a Stonehenge stage set for their performance, but due to a mix-up with the measurements, the result is hilariously undersized. The scene has become iconic and showcases Stonehenge as a symbol of mystical grandeur, albeit in a comedic light.

 

  1. “King Arthur” (2004)

The historical drama “King Arthur” portrays Stonehenge as a place of mystical and spiritual importance. The monument serves as a backdrop for key scenes, adding a layer of historical and mythical context to the film. The movie taps into the long-standing speculation about Stonehenge’s possible druidic connections.

  1. The Transformers: “The Last Knight” (2017)

In this action-packed instalment of the Transformers series, Stonehenge is more than just a historical site; it’s a pivotal location where the fate of the world hangs in the balance. The film portrays Stonehenge as an ancient power source, adding a sci-fi twist to its mysterious aura.

  1. “National Lampoon’s European Vacation” (1985)

Stonehenge makes a brief but memorable appearance in this comedy film. The Griswold family inadvertently knocks over the ancient stones like dominoes, turning the monument into a comedic prop and highlighting the clash between modern tourists and historical sites.

  1. “Druid’s Curse” (Stonehenge Apocalypse) (2010)

This TV movie takes the mysteries surrounding Stonehenge to the extreme. In “Druid’s Curse,” also known as “Stonehenge Apocalypse,” the monument becomes a doomsday device that threatens to unleash global disasters. The film plays on the many theories and speculations about Stonehenge’s original purpose.

  1. “Thor: The Dark World” (2013)

Although not explicitly Stonehenge, the film features an ancient stone circle that bears a striking resemblance to the famous monument. The circle plays a significant role in the movie’s plot, serving as a gateway to other realms.

 

  1. “Happy Feet” (2006)

In this animated film, Stonehenge is humorously parodied with a circle of stones that the penguin characters encounter. While not a direct representation, the scene pays homage to Stonehenge’s iconic status.

 

  1. “Nailbiter” (2013)

Stonehenge is mentioned in this horror film as a place where mysterious and unexplained events occur. Although it doesn’t physically appear in the movie, the mention adds to the eerie atmosphere and suspense.

 

  1. “Stonehenge Decoded” (2008)

While not a fictional film, “Stonehenge Decoded” is a documentary that delves deep into the theories, mysteries, and scientific studies surrounding Stonehenge. It’s a must-watch for anyone intrigued by this ancient monument.

  1. “Tess of the d’Urbervilles” (Various Adaptations)

Stonehenge is a significant location in adaptations of Thomas Hardy’s classic novel, “Tess of the d’Urbervilles.” While not always visually depicted, the monument’s presence in the story adds a layer of historical and emotional depth.

 

I hope you enjoyed our look at why Stonehenge is famous! Want to find out more about Stonehenge? Why not book our famous Stonehenge and Bath tour from London?

By Emma Retter (Last Updated November 2023)

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