Ancient Volcanic Eruption Linked to Neolithic Sun Stone Sacrifices Denmark

Researchers find evidence that a massive volcanic eruption around 2900 BCE prompted ritual sacrifices by early agricultural societies on Bornholm to restore sunlight and fertility.

A volcanic eruption 4,900 years ago caused significant cooling and reduced sunlight, as confirmed by ice core, tree ring, and sediment analyses.
Neolithic communities on Bornholm, Denmark, sacrificed hundreds of engraved 'sun stones' at the Vasagård site, likely as part of rituals to address the climate crisis.
The sun stones, carved with solar motifs, symbolized fertility and were buried alongside remnants of ritual feasts in ditches that were later sealed.
The eruption coincided with other challenges, including widespread plague and cultural shifts, such as the decline of the Funnel Beaker Culture in Northern Europe.
The discovery sheds light on early sun-worship practices and will be showcased in an exhibition at the National Museum of Denmark starting January 28, 2025.