Solstice literally means the 'sun stands still', and is a biannual astronomical event; for a few days around the time of the solstice the sun appears to stand still in the sky, in that its elevation at noon does not seem to change. The winter solstice marks days with the shortest daylight and longest nights, but it also marks when this starts to reverse and the daylight increases. This solstice is celebrated by many traditions and in many places- basically as the celebration of return of the sun at the darkest time of winter. Continue reading →
There was an interesting find at a long term dig in Britain last year. Touted as possibly being the grave of a druid circa CE 43, the group Honouring the Ancient Dead is asking for respectful treatment of these remains. There is also a link to a find in Israel of a 12,000 year old grave believed to be that of an ancient shaman.
