Volarské Menhiry: Ancient Stones of Bohemia

The Volarské Menhiry, also known as the Volary Cromlech or Volarský rondel, are a captivating arrangement of eleven large stones (menhirs) situated on a raised hill near Volary in the South Bohemian Region of the Czech Republic. These stones, standing since April 2007, are believed to be from the pre-Christian era, potentially dating back thousands of years. Originally, these menhirs were part of a larger rondel consisting of dozens of stones located on a plateau in the Ore Mountains. However, the construction of a road led to the rondel's destruction. In an effort to preserve these ancient stones, geologist and chemist Pavel Polák oversaw their relocation to Volary. The current arrangement of the eleven stones is designed partly as a sanctuary and partly as an observatory. The tallest stone, known as the 'vizírová stéla', stands in the center of the circle. The other stones are positioned to form two intersecting pentagrams. The stones are not placed randomly; they align with the sun's position during the summer and winter solstices and the Celtic festival of Beltain. The stones themselves are made of light-colored gneiss. Visitors can explore the menhirs and enjoy the surrounding landscape. The site offers a peaceful setting for contemplation and connection with the past.