Solar Observatory Goseck and Information Center
Solar Observatory Goseck and Information Center
The circular ditch at Goseck is the earliest archaeological evidence of systematic celestial observations. It consists of two palisade rings enclosed by a rampart. The astronomical alignment of the three gates provides a clear indication that people were already observing the sky and the course of the sun in the Neolithic period. The imposing monument with a diameter of about 70 meters was completely excavated and reconstructed on the original site. So, even today the course of the sun can be observed in the complex. Especially the solstices in June and December are therefore also used for events. In addition to the visual effect of the Stone Age sanctuary, the special acoustics inside the complex leave a lasting impression on visitors. Goseck Castle houses the information center on the Goseck Solar Observatory. A small varied presentation tells how people lived 7,000 years ago, with which tools and techniques they built the solar observatory and how they observed the sun and stars. The exhibition shows the rediscovery of the circular ditch site in Goseck and also explains the interesting phenomenon of circular ditch sites in Central Europe. The Goseck solar observatory is part of the archaeoastronomical network "Himmelswege". The total of five Himmelswege sites also includes Nebra Ark, the visitor center at the site where the Nebra Sky Disk was found.
Note: Information center in Goseck Castle
Details
Germany
Goseck
06667
Castle road 53