The most notable antiquity of Great Britain, vulgarly called Stone-Heng on Salisbvry plain restored by Inigo Jones ...

I

After what manner the stones of the greater Hexagon at Stoneheng, were raised from the circumference of the said wall.

The Design follows.

[illustration]

But, before deliver my judgment, unto which of their Dei∣ties this Temple Stoneheng was anciently dedicated by the Ro∣mans, I shall give you some customs in force amongst the An∣cients, relating the Decorum used by them, in building their particular Temples: whereby, those several opinions seemingly conclusive to whom Stoneheng sacred, may more evidently appear invalid, and my own more apparently probable. Those therefore that endevour the searching out Antiquities of Architecture, must amongst others, especially prescribe to themselves five things to be guided by. viz. The Situation, Aspect, Manner, Form, and Order of the work as in use amongst the Ancients. For, inventing the severall ornaments of Architecture, at first for honour and distinction onely of their Deities, they appropriated to each of them particu∣lar situations, precise forms, peculiar Orders, according to the severall qualities, in regard whereof adored by them.

The situation of the Temples to Venus, Mars, Vulcan, they ordained to be chosen without their Cities, as those which moved mens minds to lasciviousnesse, wars, and devastati∣ons. Within their Cities they placed the Temples of the Pa∣trons of Chastity, Peace, good Arts: and of such Gods also, to whom the Protection of their Cities committed. To Pallas, Mercury, and Isis the chief Presidents of Artificers, and Merchants, they built Temples near the Market places, or upon the Market places themselves. To Apollo and Bac∣chus near the Theater. To Hercules near the Cirque or Am∣phitheater. Unto Aesculapius and Salus, in places most of all others healthfull, and near to pure streams, and waters; be∣cause the infirm people, coming out of a pestilent and con∣tagious Aire, to that which was good and healthfull, by drinking those waters might the sooner, and with lesse difficulty be recovered, whereby zeal to those supposed Dei∣ties encreased.

The Aspect Hypaethros, mentioned before, of which Stone∣heng appears built, was proper only to some of their Gods, as shall be remembred in due time: the other five (need∣lesse here to name) were indifferently disposed, sometime

to one, and sometime to another Deity, as the magnificence of the Temples to be built required, and, as to be made with Portico's or without.

The Manner, which Vitruvius distinguishes into five kinds, according as the intercolumnes are of five severall propor∣tions, was only so far forth peculiarly appropriated to their Deities, as it was agreeable to the proper Order, otherwise they followed the greatnesse of the Work.

But, to each of them appropriating particular forms of Temples; to some of their Gods, they made them of a round form, to others quadrangular, to others of many angles: some of them having their Temples covered, with roofs over them; others again built uncovered, without any manner of roofs at all: As, our Antiquity Stoneheng.

Lastly, the Order of which they built them, was so di∣ligently observed, according to the peculiar qualities of their Deities, that seldom or never they varied: as in fit place I shall remember. These aforesaid rules also were so firmly observed by the Ancients, that even at first sight the Roman Architects of old were able to judge, to what Deity, this, or that Temple sacred: and the modern Italian Architects, by the ruines of them at this day, give such notable testimonies to∣wards the discovery of them, as are very hardly to be con∣tradicted. Whosoever desires more of this, may read Vitru∣vius, Leo Baptista Albertus, and other Authors writing of Ar∣chitecture. That then we may arrive to a degree of certainty unto whom our Stoneheng anciently dedicated; some such Deitie of the Romans is to be found out, in whose honour they built Temples, not only in such situations as this at Stone∣heng; but with whose nature or quality the Form and Aspect thereof may be agreeable also; and the Order proper. For, whosoever goes about to enforce other reasons, do as I con∣ceive but beat the air, neither can they reduce this Antiquity to any probable Originall.

To which of the Roman Deities Stoneheng consecrated, are, as I said before, severall opinions. Some presume it sacred to Diana, but upon what ground their conjecture is raised,

considering both the Aspect and Manner of this Temple utter∣ly different from those the Ancients used to dedicate to Her, I cannot conceive;* 1.1 for, the Manner of the Temples erected to Diana, was Diastylos, i.e. columnis ampliùs patentibus, made with large and void spaces: the Aspect of that at Ephesus was Dipteros; that at Magnesia Pseudodipteros: which Manner Her∣mogenes inventing to save expence and labour, though he left out the Order of pillars within, and thereby the Portico came to be more large, yet the Aspect continued still the same. And, as in the Aspect and Manner, so likewise in the Order and Form it's different: that, at Ephesus aforesaid being of the Ionick Order, the Order peculiarly appropriated to Dia∣na, and quadrangular: of the same Form also, was that at Magnesia aforesaid, and so likewise the Romans built them, as by the now Church of S. Iohn Evangelist at the Latian, or Latine Port,* 1.2 anciently the Temple of Diana; and that in Mount Aventine also, the chief of her Temples in Rome, fully appears. The situation of the Temples dedicated to her, was in groves, whence Vitruvius* 1.3 cals her grovy Diana.

Ecce suburbanae templum nemorale Dianae, saith Ovid. See where Diana's grovy Temple stands.

In which sort Virgil, Pliny, and other Authors also tell us her Temples were always sited. The Architecture therefore of the Temples to Diana, and this at Stoneheng being so far different, there is no probable reason Stoneheng should be suppos'd dedicated to her.

Moreover, whether or no this opinion may be consi∣stent with any of those qualities, the Ancients endowed this Goddesse with, let us examine further the Nature of the Deity it self.* 1.4 Is Stoneheng consecrated to Diana because she presided over ways? what publick roads then, or common high-ways are to be read of, which anciently led over the Downs near this Antiquity? The most ancient ways we meet with, and which the Romans first made in this Island, as Camden* 1.5 sets them down, are four, Watling-street,

Ikemild-street, Ermin-street, and the Fosse. Watling-street led through Verolamium directly as it were by a streight line to the West side of Leicestershire,* 1.6 and from thence through the Northerly Counties into Wales. Ikemild-street began in the Countrey of the Iceni, tending Eastward. Ermin-street in the same quarter, running through Gambridgeshire, Huntingdon∣shire, and so on towards Lincolnshire led the right way into the Northern Countreys on that side: (this street-way, hap∣ply, may be that which among the inhabitants passeth now by the name of High Dike.) The Fosse passing through War∣wickshire, came down to Stow on the Would,* 1.7 thence to Cirn∣cester, from Cirncester continuing on towards Bath and be∣yond it to Somerton into the Western Provinces: the ridge whereof is yet to be seen in divers places of that tract. All of them lying so far from Stoneheng, that none of them are remembred to come nearer then Cirncester to any part of the Plains whereon it stands, and therefore in this respect there can be no cause to imagine this Antiquity should be dedica∣ted to her. Or, is Stoneheng sacred to Diana, because she was the Patronesse of Gates? for which reason the Ancients built her Temples, either near to them within their Cities, or not far from them in the pleasant suburbs. But what Cities, or places having any such Gates, were ever found an∣ciently so near Stoneheng, as might cause the dedication of so great a work to her? surely none. Or, is Stoneheng hallow∣ed to Diana because she had the tutelage of Mountains? if so, then where are those Mountains to be found near this Antiquity on Salisbury Plains? which Plains, North, South, East and Westward through the midst of Wiltshire are so open, that they terminate the Horizon. If any such Moun∣tains there, why do all Historians call them Plains? But admit Mountains somtimes on Salisbury Plain, what then became of them? were they removed by Earthquakes, swallowed into the ground by an Hiatus of the earth, or levell'd by inundations? then let it be made apparent when such like accidents fell out. Or is Stoneheng dedicated to Di∣ana, because she delighted to bath her self in fountains and

fresh springs? where are those fountains and fresh springs to be found? haply, in the utmost borders they may be had, none certainly in the body of the Plains, or any thing near Stoneheng: spring veins being not there to be found, unlesse by sinking wells or pits very deep, which the inhabitants are enforced to make in severall places for watering their sheep, and as glad they are there, as the Patriarchs of old in the deserts of Canaan to come by them. Or is Stoneheng sacred to Diana, because reputed Goddesse of hunting? then, who ever desirous of a Temple for her, may finde it in Daphne, the anciently famous suburbs of Antiochia, where was not onely a Temple dedicated to her, but an Asylum also,* 1.8 as Strabo witnesseth: such places only being held pro∣per for her mysteries, where interven'd variety of pleasures, goodly shadowy groves, delicate walks, and pleasant springs of most cool and fresh waters. In the midst of these delights the Ancients sited her Temples, not in wilde Downs, or vast Plains, so wide and open that hardly see from one side of them to another, affording neither shelter for travellers against canicular heats, nor succour for cattell against the boisterous blasts of blustering Boreas. Lastly, is Stoneheng dedicated to Diana, because the supposed guardian of woods? then remains it to be made apparent by them, those Plains in ancient times bore another countenance then at present. That they were full of Forrests, woods and groves, with variety of lawns, replenished and stored with such sorts of game, and wilde beasts in chase whereof Diana and her companions are said to recreate themselves: from whence some are of opinion she was called Diana, as much to say Deviana,* 1.9 quoniam venantes per devia & silvas deviare solent, captantes feras. Because of huntsmens deviating, or wandring out of the way, through uncouth paths and woods in pursuit of their game. That those Plains afforded as much pleasure and delights as the Thessalian Tempe, the Syrian Daphne, or what place else as famous where her Temples anciently stood: and, in what unknown age they were disafforrested and laid wast. Which, if ever so, certainly some signs thereof would re∣main,

or at least be found there, as well as in other parts of the Island, in times past overgrown with woods. As in Anglesey formerly mentioned; in Cheshire, where, in digging their marlepits are often found huge trees, demonstrating to posterity the forrests there anciently growing; in the Isle of Axholm in Lincolnshire, where the inhabitants have hardly any fewell, but what such trees afford so digged out of the earth; in Somersetshire, where I my self have seen trunks of trees lying under ground, and expressing the places in times past overgrown with trees, very few or none being in those places now standing. Besides, some remembrance of the aforesaid forrests and woods History questionlesse would yeeld; now what occasion soever Historians take for men∣tioning this tract, not one word is delivered by them to that purpose, all unanimously consenting 'twas never other then at present an open and champion Countrey. A Theater on which Bellona often displayed her bloody ensigns, and acted severall tragedies in times of old: A field of Mars, where Romans, Saxons, and after Danes for obtaining the do∣minion of this Island decided their ambitious controver∣sies. Of which actions we have visible testimony unto this day, witnesse those burrows, and places where they cast the bodies of their slain, over all quarters of the plain dispersed, which in long time are so shrowded by nature with ever growing grasse, that their memory will remain by their sepulchres to all posterity; that which consumes all works of Art, making them still more fresh and flourishing: wit∣nesse spoils of war there frequently digged up, as formerly remembred: severall encamping places of those severall Nations in all parts of the plain even yet appearing, no place in the whole Island, respecting the circuit, having more remains of them: Also that huge Trench, mentioned be∣fore by the name of Wansdike, running through the very bowels of them, such manner of trenches appearing no where in any part of England beside, saving where the like plains interveen; so at Newmarket Heath the like trench vul∣garly called Devils Dike, as if made by Devils not by men, is

[illustration]

to be seen; though in ancient times it was the limits of the Kingdome of the East Angles, and it took end, as Camden* 1.10 very well observes, where the passages by reason of woods grew cumbersome: Which, if the like be granted for Wansdike (as is very probable, it ending also with the Plains) then with∣out controversie there were no more woods in times of old on Salisbury Plains then at this day; it running over∣thwart them, as in a direct line from East to West. And who knows not, that other manner of fortifications then running trenches upon direct lines are to be cast up for defence of woody situations? But why urge more Autho∣rities, when the Inhabitants of the Countrey tell us, the soil or ground being hot, dry, and chalky is altogether improper for the growth of trees. Thus then the situation of the place, so antipathizing in all respects with the na∣ture and qualities anciently attributed to Diana, and the Manner, Form, and Order of this Antiquity, so contrary to the custome used by the Ancients in erecting her Temples, no rea∣son wherefore this Temple Stoneheng should be conceiv'd as erected for celebration of the superstitious ceremonies an∣ciently ascribed unto her Worship.

Some, again, would have Stoneheng consecrated to Pan; because Pan a Greek word signifying the Universe, under him the whole frame of Nature was adored. And therefore, the Ancients made his statues with horns, saith Servius, expressing thereby the beams of the Sun, and horns of the Moon; those issuing from his forehead, and turning upwards towards Heaven, as Boccace will have it, signified the Celestiall bo∣dies: feigning also, as the world moves with extraordi∣nary swiftnesse, he excelled likewise in speed of running. By the purple, ruddy, and enflamed face, attributed to Pan, that pure fire, above all other Elements holding his place in the confines of the Celestiall Sphears was demonstrated: by his large long beard descending down upon his breast, the two superiour Elements Aire and Fire of a masculine nature, sending down their impressions upon the other two naturally feminine was shewed: by the spotted skin cove∣ring

his breast and shoulders, the eighth sphear wholly embelished with glorious stars; inveloping in like man∣ner all appertaining to the nature of sublunary creatures was represented: by the sheep-hook which he held in one hand, Natures dominion over all things (according to Boc∣cace) was signified: and as Servius saith, because this staffe, or rod was crooked, the year revolving into it self, was thereby expressed: in the other hand holding a Pipe, con∣sisting of seven reeds, whereby, the Celestiall harmony conceived by some to have seven sounds, and seven diffe∣rent tunes, according to the number of the Planets, and their Sphears which are seven, was so set forth.

After this manner Mythologists discourse of Pan, with va∣rious opinions, according to the subtile niceties of their severall fancies: and in these respects as having relation to the Heavens, this Antiquity Stoneheng is imagined sacred to Him. 'Tis true, if Mythologie, and not demonstrative rea∣sons were to be fixt upon in matters of Architecture, the for∣mer conceptions might be some ground to frame conje∣ctures Stoneheng sacred to Pan. But, Architecture depending upon demonstration, not fancy, the fictions of Mythologists are no further to be embraced, then as not impertinently conducing to prove reall truths. Wherefore, the aforesaid ancient rules for building Temples considered, and compa∣ring the Order, Form, Aspect and Situation of the Temples to Pan, with the like in this Antiquity, so much contrariety is found betwixt them, as may convince any reasonable judge∣ment Stoneheng not dedicated to Him.

Pan pastorum, venatorum, & universae vitae rusticanae praesidem crediderunt Antiqui, saith Natalis Comes.* 1.11 Pan was the reputed God amongst the Ancients, of Shepherds, Huntsmen, and all those that led an agrestick life. The same Author also calling him Piscatorum Deum, the God of Fishermen as well as Shepherds. Arcadibus Deorum antiquissimus & honoratissimus est Pan, saith Dionysius.* 1.12 Pan is the most ancient, and most honoured Deity of the Arcadians.* 1.13 And in Arcadia it self where he was principally adored, they built his Temples for the most part in Towns

of the same Form and Order as to Iuno: In the Town of Heraea, habet Pan templum suum (saith Pausanias in his description of Arcadia) quod olim Junoni dicatum fuit,* 1.14 Pan had his Temple which anciently was dedicated to Juno. Now, the Order appropri∣ated to Iuno by the Romans, was the Ionick, as is manifest from Vitruvius, who tels us, To Iuno, Diana, and Bacchus, and to the other Deities of the same quality,* 1.15 they built Temples of the Ionick Order. The Form in like manner of her sacred structures was quadrangular, as in Mount Aventine, in foro Olitorio (or the herb Market) in Mount Quirinal, and elswhere amongst the Romans the ruines of her Temples do evidently witnesse: as also, her Temples anciently at Argos,* 1.16 and amongst the Elians in Greece, built of the like Form, and of the Dorick Order. But this Antiquity is of the severe Tuscane work,* 1.17 and of a round figure. The Temples to Pan had a Portico onely in front, at Stoneheng it continues round about the Cell. The Temples to Pan were not exposed to the open Aire, and built uncovered as Stoneheng was, but had roofs upon them. For, Ignis eiperpetuus ardebat,* 1.18 therein they kept perpetuall fire, as at Aca∣cesium a Town also of Arcadians; all Temples wherein they kept such fires being covered, as the Temple to Apollo at Del∣phos amongst the Greeks, and to Vesta at Rome amongst the Romans. But, if at any time they did erect them distant from a Town, reserving always the Form and Order, they chose such situations as wholly environed with trees; for ex∣ample, the Temple to Pan in Mount Lycaeus, was compassed in with a thick wood, condenso circumseptum luco, as Pausanias hath it: so likewise, that Temple sacred to Him in the Par∣thenian Forrest, according to the said Author. Now, this Temple Stoneheng is sited in an open champion Countrey; where scarce a bush or tree, much lesse thick woods, or for∣rests to be seen throughout the whole Plain; nor was there ever any in times of old as History remembers, and the nature of the soil, as I am informed, is no wise prosperous for their growing there, as is sufficiently before declared.

But Pan (say they) being the God of Shepherds, why might not Stoneheng to gratifie them be erected, and consequently

by the Romans dedicated to their God Pan? no place in the whole Island more abounding with sheep, then the cir∣cumadjacent Plains; the almost innumerable flocks where∣of, not only most plentifully satisfying the bordering in∣habitants for food; but, from their delicate fleeces, a great part of the known universe are clad also. I answer, amongst the Romans (declared at large before to be Founders of Stoneheng) I do not finde any one Temple, Holy House, Sanctu∣ary, Grove, Altar, or any such like sacred structure consecrated to Pan in their own Country; much lesse any Temple dedi∣cated unto Him by them in Britain: and therefore, utter∣ly improbable this Temple Stoneheng should be erected by the Romans unto Pan.

There was a Temple indeed,* 1.19 built to Pan Lycaeus on Mount Palatine,* 1.20 by those Arcadians which accompanied Evander into Italy; in which, though the Romans in succee∣ding times performed the same rites, as the Arcadians anci∣ently had instituted; yet, He passed with the Romans under the name of Lupercus,* 1.21 and in honour of Him, as some Au∣thors of opinion, certain festivals or games called Lupercalia, at Rome onely, not in Provinces conquered by them, were solemnized by the Romans; Noblemens sons running in those games,* 1.22 according to the primitive institution set∣ting forth and beginning their course at Mount Palatine, and so round about the City to the same place again.* 1.23 I may not omit, neverthelesse, that severall Authors deliver the Lupercalia were instituted in thankfulnesse to Lupa, or the wolf that gave Romulus suck, and the course of those games beginning at Mount Palatine (not so much in re∣membrance it seems of Pans Temple there, as) from the Lupercal or the very place they say where Romulus was cast out.* 1.24

Dionysius* 1.25 of Halicarnassus tels us the Arcadians built the aforesaid Temple to Pan, idoneo invento loco &c. when they had found out a convenient place for it adjoyning to their ha∣bitations: the condition or nature of which place is not unworthy your observation; for by his description thereof

we shall easily perceive what manner of situation was by the Arcadian Shepherds held proper for performing the ceremonies of their God Pan. His words are, Erat tum, ut fertur, spelunca sub tumulo magna, denso querceto contecta, & sub petris profundi fonticuli, solúmque rupibus contiguum nemorosum, & frequentibus ac proceris opacum arboribus: ibi ara deo extructa, more patrio sacra fecerunt. Under the Hill (to wit, Mount Palatine) was anciently, as report goes (saith he) a great cave or den, covered over by a thick grove, deep wells or riverets running amongst the stones of the cave, and round about it a wood, by the many and tall trees growing therein very dark and obscure: there the Altar of the God was placed, and his Sacrifices after their Country manner performed. Now is Stoneheng thus sited, or was there ever any such like place near this Antiquity? of all the places in England that I know, none comes nearer that cave, then Ochy-hole in Somersetshire: And if the Ancients held such dismall situa∣tions only proper for Pans Temples, then without perad∣venture Stoneheng was never erected in honour of him, they being no innovators in their superstitions.

A further observation may be made to our purpose, up∣on the aforesaid description, Erat tum antrum magnum, it was anciently (saith Dionysius* 1.26) a great cave. But in his own time, which was under Augustus, the Romans had so choked up the place with building, that the manner how Pans Temple in old time stood, was hardly to be discovered: nunc quidem aedisiciis (saith he) fanum circumquaque sepientibus, difficilis conje∣ctura est qualis olim loci natura fuerit. At this present, verily, the Temple being every way environed with buildings, it is hardly to be conjectured in what manner of place it anciently stood. This was the cause which enforced him to deliver to posterity the former description meerly upon report. Certainly then, the Romans employing the place to profaner uses, Pans Deity was little esteemed by them; otherwise, they would never have polluted it, by setting up private houses upon the place consecrated to him. Now the Ro∣mans slighting him after this manner at home, little reason appears so magnificent a structure as Stoneheng, should be

erected by them for adoration of Pan in other Countreys.

Furthermore, the Sacrifices in times of old offered to Pan were milk and honey, offered up in simple Shepherds crocks or earthen pitchers: quare non ritè sacrificabant, qui tauros illi immolabant, aut qui in aureis poculis lac aut vinum offe∣rebant &c. Wherefore, they sacrificed not aright, saith Natalis Comes,* 1.27 who immolated Buls or Oxen unto him, or out of golden cups poured forth milk or wine upon his Altars; for goblets of that metall were proper onely for the supernall and celestiall Deities, not to terrestriall, and such as had care of Heards∣men or Shepherd Swains. To which purpose also, the same Author out of Apollonius Smyrnaeus remembers Pan, thus speaking of himself.

Sum Deus agrestis, cur his sunt aurea sacris Pocula? quo vinum funditis Italicum? Ad petram cur stat taurus cervice ligatus? Parcite: non haec est victima grata mihi. Pan montanus ego sum, ligneus, ipsáque vestis Pellicea est: mustum è fictilibúsque bibo.

In English thus:

A rurall God am I, in golden cup The Falern wine, why then d'yee offer up? Why at mine Altar, stands the stern Bull bound, Or Oxe that's fat, with laurell girland crown'd? Spare ye such cost: no gratefull victimes these Are unto me, others lesse costly please. A Mountaineer, a wood-man clad in skin Am I: your wine in earthen vessels bring.

But the Sacrifices anciently offered at Stoneheng (already re∣membred) were Buls or Oxen, and severall sorts of beasts, as appears by the heads of divers kinds of them, not many years since there digged up.

As for that of the Pantheon, it is very well known the An∣cients so called it, not in any relation to Pan, but because it was sacred to Iove the Revenger, and according to others to

Cibele, and all Gods. For which reason, Boniface the fourth obtained licence from the Emperour Phocas,* 1.28 to consecrate it to the Virgin Mary, and all Saints. And who knows not the Architecture thereof wholly different from this of Stoneheng? The Pantheon hath its Cell enclosed with a continued solid wall, and the Portico only in front, of the delicate Corinthian Order; of which Order the inner part consisted likewise, being vaulted in most admirable and magnificent manner. From whence Dion* 1.29 Cassius delivers his opinion, inde id nomi∣nis habere, quòd forma convexa fastigiatum, coeli similitudinem ostenderet, it to be called the Pantheon, because by the form of that vault wherewith covered, it represented the concave of Heaven, or (as others will) the figure of the world; for the world being mans house, the firmament is as the vaulted roof thereof. At the crown of the vault it had an opening, by which only it received light and air. But, this Antiquity Stoneheng built of a grave and humble Order (as is said before) had a double Portico continuing round about it, the Cell thereof free and open, and every way exposed to the air, received light from all parts.

Wherefore leaving these, Stoneheng was dedicated, as I con∣ceive, to the God Coelus, by some Authors called Coelum, by others Uranus, from whom the Ancients imagined all things took their beginning. My reasons are, First, in respect of the situation thereof; for it stands in a Plain, remote from any Town or Village, in a free and open air, without any groves or woods about it.

Secondly, in regard of the Aspect; for Stoneheng was ne∣ver covered, but built without a roof. Which Decorum the Romans ever observed, both in the Situation and Aspect of the Temples dedicated to this their God, and to Iove the Lightner, the Sun,* 1.30 and the Moon. Iovi fulguratori, & Coelo, & Soli, & Lunae, aedisicia sub divo Hypaethráque constituuntur. To Jove the Lightner, and to Coelus, and to the Sun, and to the Moon, they erected buildings in the open air and uncovered, saith Vitruvius in the second Chap∣ter of his first Book. Take with you also his reason. Horum enim Deorum & species & effectus in aperto mundo atque lucenti

praesentes videmus, because both the forms and effects of these Dei∣ties, we behold present before our eyes, in a clear and open view. Ano∣ther reason I find also why they built their Temples to Coelus,* 1.31 and those other Deities uncovered as Stoneheng: because they counted it an hainous matter to see those Gods confi∣ned under a roof, whose doing good consisted in being abroad.

Thirdly, in regard of the Form of Stoneheng, which is cir∣cular.* 1.32 This figure was proper to the Temples of Coelus and Tellus, whom the Ancients called Vesta, as Valerianus (in his Hieroglyphicks) affirms. Non solamente la palla, ma una sim∣plice piegatura di ruota, appresso gli Egizziani demostrava il Cielo. Not only (saith he) the circular form, but the meer segment of a circle amongst the Egyptians was an Hieroglyphick of Coelus. And to this purpose also,* 1.33 Leo Baptista Albertus useth these words. Aedem Vestae, quam esse terram putarent, rotundam ad pilae similitu∣dinem, faciebant. Unto Vesta, whom they reputed to be the Earth, they built Temples of a round form globelike. Besides, observe what Philander commenting on Vitruvius tels us.* 1.34 Templorum quanquam alia fiant quadrata, alia multorum angulorum, Coeli natu∣ram imitati veteres, imprimis rotundis sunt delectati: Although (saith he) the Ancients made some Temples square, some of six sides, others of many angles, they were especially delighted with making of them round, as representing thereby the Form or Figure of Coelum, Heaven.

Fourthly, in respect of the Order whereof Stoneheng built. The severity of this Tuscane work, retaining in it a shew (as it were) of that first face of Antiquity* 1.35 (as A. Palladio terms it) being most agreeable to the nature of this their God, reputed the ancientest of all their Deities, and Father of Sa∣turn. For, it was the custome of the Ancients (as in part I remembred before) to appropriate the severall Orders of Ar∣chitecture, according to the particular qualifications of those they deified. Minervae, & Marti, & Herculi, aedes Doricae fient: his enim diis propter virtutem,* 1.36 sine deliciis aedificia constitui decet. To Minerva, and Mars, and Hercules, Temples of the Dorick Order were made; for, to these Deities in respect of their valiant actions, it

was requisite to build without delicacy. Veneri, Florae, Proserpinae, Fontium Nymphis, Corinthio genere constitutae, aptas videbuntur ha∣bere proprietates, quòd his diis propter teneritatem, graciliora & flo∣rida, foliísque & volutis ornata opera facta augere videbuntur justum decorem. To Venus, Flora, Proserpina, the Fountain Nymphs, the Corinthian Order was thought most proper: because unto these in re∣gard of their tender natures, the work seemed to advance a just deco∣rum, when made delicate and flourishing, and adorned with leaves and volutes. Iunoni, Dianae, Libero Patri caeterísque diis qui eadem sunt similitudine, si aedes Ionicae construerentur, habita erat ratio mediocri∣tatis, quod & ab severo more Doricorum, & à teneritate Corinthio∣rum, temperabitur earum institutio proprietatis. To Iuno, Diana, Bacchus, and to the other Deities of the same quality, building Tem∣ples of the Ionick Order, they had regard unto the mean, that from the severe manner of the Dorick, and delicacy of the Corinthian, the condition of their indowments might be duly moderated, saith Vitru∣vius. To Iupiter, Sol, and Luna, though they made Temples sub divo open to the air and without roofs like this Anti∣quity; yet were they not built of severe and humble but most delicate Orders, and accordingly were adorned with costly ornaments, and beautified with various enrichments in severall sorts of sculpture, as by the ruines of them in divers parts of Italy remaining to this day, evidently ap∣pears. Respecting therefore, this Decorum used by the Anci∣ents in building their Temples, and that this work Stoneheng is principally composed of a most grave Tuscane manner, by just proportions of an agreeable form; it is in mine opinion, as I said before, most agreeable to the quality and condition of that ancient Coelus, whom Antiquity reputed the very stem whence all those Deities in the succeeding Ages proceeded. Coelus ex eadem conjuge (scilicet Tellure) procreavit Oceanum, Coelum, Hyperionem &c.* 1.37 & novissimum omnium Saturnum suscepit. Coelus, by the same wise (to wit Tellus) had Oceanus, Coelum, Hyperion &c. and last of all begat Saturn. To which purpose also Lactantius, I finde Uranius by his wife Vesta had Saturn and Ops: Saturn attaining the government, called his father Uranius, Coelus, and his mother Terra; that by this change of names,

he might the more magnifie the splendor of his originall &c. Further, I conceive it will not be impertinent to our purpose in hand, to deliver what the Ancients have reported of Coe∣lus; and wherefore they ascribed divine Honours unto Him.

According to the Poets, Coelus was not that huge machine adorned with stars, which Orpheus saith was composed for habitation of the Planets, and other Deities, and which we behold moving with continuall revolution: but a certain man so called, son to Aether and Dies, that, is della virtù ar∣dente, & della luce famosa, of transcendent influence and resplendent brightness, as Boccace hath it.* 1.38

By Historians, especially Diodorus* 1.39 Siculus, it's thus delive∣red. Scribunt primùm regnasse apud Atlantides Coelum: Hominés∣que antea per agros dispersos, ad coetum, condendásque urbes exhor∣tatum, à fera eos agrestíque vita ad mitiorem cultum extitisse &c. They write, he which first reigned over the Atlantides was Coelus, and that he invited men living dispersedly before throughout the fields, to convene, and dwell in companies together, exhorting them to build Towns, and reducing them from wild and savage to the conversation of civill life: Taught them also to sow corn and seeds, and divers other things belonging to the common use of mankind; Ruled likewise over a great part of the world from East to West; Was a diligent observer of the stars, and foretold men divers things to come: The year (before confus'd) bringing into Order, according to the course of the Sun, reducing it also into moneths after the Moons course, and appoint∣ing likewise the severall seasons of the year. Whereby many ignorant of the perpetuall course of the stars, and amazed at his future predicti∣ons, did verily believe he participated of Divine Nature, and there∣fore after his death, as well for benefits received from him, as great knowledge of the stars, they conferred on him immortall honours, and adored him as a God. And, as appears, called Coelus in regard of his skill in the celestiall bodies, as also, for divers other causes eternall King of all the world. Thus Diodorus. It being an ordinary cu∣stome among the Heathens to deifie, and esteem for Gods, such excellent personages, as either had well ruled, or governed them, or done any notable thing among

[illustration]

them to their especiall benefit, or good liking. Such, were they men, or women, remained with the name, re∣putation, and reverence of Gods or Goddesses after their deaths.

Furthermore, according to the Philosophers; Men (they knew not how) by nature soon wanting, and by instinct as soon seeking some God (in stead of apprehending bet∣ter) deified the best to sense. Whereupon, out of all Entities as most glorious to the eye, they first made choice of Hea∣ven, and Heavenly bodies;* 1.40 considering again, as the most beneficiall objects, those living creatures, and fruits which the Earth beneath brought forth, to make compleat genera∣tions, they coupled Coelus to Tellus, adoring Heaven as Father, and Earth as Mother to these; the pouring down of show∣ers from Heaven seeming in stead of naturall seeds, and the Earth as a Mother to conceive, and bring forth the same.

Fifthly, the Sacrifices in times of old offered to Coelus were Bulls or Oxen, their great God Iupiter himself, as I find in Rosinus,* 1.41 offering such Victimes unto him. Ante pugnam, quae cum Gigantibus in Creta habita est, Jovem sacrificasse dicunt Soli, Coelo, ac Terrae bovem. Before the battell struck with the Gi∣ants in Crete, they say Jupiter sacrificed an Oxe to Sol, Coelus, and Terra. Now that there hath oftentimes been digged out of the ground at Stoneheng, the heads of such beasts, in all pro∣bability anciently in that place sacrificed; I need not again remember, being it is so well known.

Sixthly, all the upright stones in this Antiquity are Pyra∣midall like flames, in imitation of those Aetheriall fires, wherewith the Heaven is adorned.* 1.42 Now, that Fire hath the form of a Pyramis is evident, percioche, essendo largo da basso, in∣torno alla materia & esca, da che si pasce, finisce in acuta fiamma che riguardo al Cielo. Because, being large at the bottome, in respect of the matter and fewell, by which it is fed, it finishes in an acute flame tending upwards towards Heaven. And, that the Heavens are adorned with fires, Natalis Comes in his Mythology, out of Orpheus, makes apparent. Nihil aliud esse Coelum existimans, nisi

hunc aethera qui constat ex altissimis illis ignibus. Supposing the Heaven to be no other thing, but this Air which consisteth of those transcendent Fires.

Lastly, that Stoneheng was anciently dedicated to Coelus I collect from the Conformation of the work. For the con∣formation of the Cell and Porticus in the Plant, was designed with four equilaterall Triangles, inscribed in a Circle, such as the Astrologers use in describing the twelve celestiall signs in musicall proportions.* 1.43 According to that of Vitruvius; In ea conformatione quatuor scribantur trigona paribus lateribus & inter∣vallis, quae extremam lineam circinationis tangant; In the confor∣mation thereof, let four triangles be inscribed of equall sides and inter∣vals, which may touch the extreme part of the circumference: quibus etiam in duodecim signorum coelestium descriptione, Astrologi ex mu∣sica convenientia astrorum ratiocinantur; by which figures also, Astro∣logers from the musicall harmony of the stars ground their reasonings, as concerning the description of the twelve celestiall signs. Besides the Cell it self in the formation thereof, is cast into an Exagon, one of the three figures, likewise used by Astrologers in their aforesaid arguments of the sympathy of the stars. Figuris tri∣bus (saith Philander) utuntur Astrologi, Trigono, Tetragono & Hexa∣gono. The Astrologers make use of three sorts of figures; the Tri∣angle, Tetragon, and Hexagon. Furthermore, the three entran∣ces leading into the Temple from the Plain, were compar∣ted by an equilaterall triangle; which was the figure whereby the Ancients expressed what appertained to Hea∣ven, and divine mysteries also. Aggiungono i Magi (saith Pie∣rius Valerianus* 1.44) che un triangolo semplice di lati uguali, è indizio di divinità, overo effigie di cose celesti. The Magi adde that a triangle of equall sides is a symbole of Divinity, or sign of celestiall matters. Now this Antiquity consisting of severall stones, orderly disposed into one entire work, in imitation, as it were, of those severall stars which appearing to us in the Heavens in form of a circle, are called the celestiall Crown; and whol∣ly designed by those Scheams wherewith Astrologers use to describe celestiall bodies; which figures, usually applied by them to particular accidents onely, being all joyntly

made use of by the Architect for conformation of this sa∣cred structure, it is not improbable Stoneheng was so com∣posed, because dedicated to Coelum. Yea further, (if lawfull to compare an idolatrous place with so divine a work) was not the Temple at Hierusalem adorned with the figures of Cherubims, that thereby the Nations of the Earth might know it was the habitation of the living God? and, why not in like manner this Temple composed by Astrologicall fi∣gures, that after Ages might apprehend, it was anciently consecrated to Coelus or Coelum Heaven?

But in this conjuncture; concerning such kinde of Temples as this at Stoneheng, what saith the learned Patriarch of Aquileia?* 1.45 Io credo, che quel Tempio senza parete significava al∣cune cose del Cielo,* 1.46 gli effetti delle quali sono nello scoperto. I beleeve that Temple without walls (speaking of the Monopteros aforesaid) had a relation to Coelum (Heaven) because the effects thereof are openly displaied to the full view of all men.

Camden tels us he had heard, that in the time of King Hen∣ry the eighth, a table of metall was found, not far from this Antiquity, engraven with divers strange characters, which being not legible, was neglected and lost: had, indeed, that Table been found within the work it self it might happily have brought to light somwhat in relation to Stoneheng. And by all likelihood, in time some inscriptions may there∣in be found, it being the custome as well of Greeks as Ro∣mans, in times of greatest Antiquity, to lay inscriptions (usu∣ally) under the first stones set in what works soever; espe∣cially, those of any great magnificence. Wherefore, I advise mine honoured Friend Laurence Washington Esquire in whose demeasnes this Antiquity stands, to whom I am much obliged, for his friendly notice of what things have been there of late years digged up, that he would be solicitous upon any search made there, to enquire after them, and if any found not to neglect, or curiously conceal them, but preserve and willingly produce the same.

I suppose, I have now proved from Authentick Authors, and the rules of Art, Stoneheng anciently a Temple, dedicated

to Coelus, built by the Romans; either in, or not long after those times (by all likelihood) when the Roman Eagles spreading their commanding wings over this Island, the more to civilize the Natives, introduc'd the Art of Building amongst them, discovering their ambitious desire, by stu∣pendious and prodigious works, to eternize the memory of their high minds to succeeding Ages. For, the magnifi∣cence of that stately Empire, is at this day clearly visible in nothing more, then in the ruines of their Temples, Palaces, Arch's Triumphals, Aquaeducts, Thermae, Theaters, Amphitheaters, Cirques, and other secular, and sacred structures.

History affords only Contemplation, whereby their great Actions are made conceivable alone to reasoning: but the ruines of their buildings Demonstration, which obvious to sense, are even yet as so many eye-witnesses of their admir'd atchievements.

Roma quanta fuit, ipsa ruina docet, How great Rome was, her ruines yet declare.

Opinions fancied to the contrary, I have rendred impro∣bable, the Authors of them in respect of this Antiquity being not only modern; but also, what said by them Romance-like hatched out of their own brains,* 1.47 even as other fables invented by them, touching the Britains of old. Men possest neverthelesse, with a former conceit of things, endure not by any means new opinions, having not commonly pati∣ence to search long after the truth thereof. To them, ever the more generally received, the truer things seem, accoun∣ting all of their own time despicable; insomuch, as some are so far in love with vulgarly receiv'd reports, that it must be taken for truth, whatsoever related by them, though nor head, nor tail, nor foot, nor footstep in it oftentimes of reason or common sense. They that beleeve Geffrey Mon∣mouths ipse dixit, may make themselves merry therewith; in pleasing their own fancy, they displease not mine. As I have delivered my own judgement freely, all reason they

should enjoy theirs. But such as sail in the vast Ocean of time, amongst the craggy rocks of Antiquity, steering their course, betwixt anciently approved customs, and convin∣cing arguments, guided by good Authority, and sound judgement, arrive much safer, and with better repute, in the secure Haven of undoubted Truth. For mine own part, I had rather erre happily with venerable Antiquity, then so much as trouble my thoughts with modern conceits. Whether, in this adventure, I have wafted my Barque into the wished Port of Truths discovery concerning Stoneheng, I leave to the judgement of skilfull Pilots. I have endevou∣red, at least, to give life to the attempt, trending perhaps, to such a degree, as either may invite others to undertake the Voyage anew, or prosecute the same in more ample manner, in which, I with them their desired successe, and that with prosperous gales they may make a more full and certain discovery.

FINIS.

Notes

• * 1.1

  Vitr. lib. 3. cap. 1 & 2.
• * 1.2

  Fab. Cal.
• * 1.3

  Vitr. lib. 4. cap. 7.
• * 1.4

  Nat. Com. lib. 3. cap. 18.
• * 1.5

  Camden fo. 64.
• * 1.6

  Camden fo. 517.
• * 1.7

  Ibid. fo. 366.
• * 1.8

  Strab. li. 16.
• * 1.9

  Rosin. lib. 2. cap. 7.
• * 1.10

  Camden fo. 490.
• * 1.11

  Nat. Com. lib. 5.
• * 1.12

  Dion. Hali. lib. 1.
• * 1.13

  Rosin. lib. 2.
• * 1.14

  Pausan. fo. 496.
• * 1.15

  Vitr. lib. 1. cap. 2.
• * 1.16

  Alexan. Don. Pomp. Totti.
• * 1.17

  Pausan. fo. 114. & 317.
• * 1.18

  Ibid. fo. 516.
• * 1.19

  Dion. Hal. lib. 1.
• * 1.20

  Rosin. lib. 2. cap. 20.
• * 1.21

  Iustin. lib. 43.
• * 1.22

  Plutarch. in Rom.
• * 1.23

  Rosin. lib. 3. cap. 2.
• * 1.24

  Plut. in Rom.
• * 1.25

  Dion. lib. 1.
• * 1.26

  Dion. lib. 1.
• * 1.27

  Nat. Com. lib. 5.
• * 1.28

  Platin. in Bon.
• * 1.29

  Dion. lib. 53.
• * 1.30

  Vitr. li. 1. cap. 2.
• * 1.31

  Godw. An∣tiq. l. 1. cap. 20.
• * 1.32

  Pier. Valer. Hier. lib. 39.
• * 1.33

  Leo Bapt. Alb. lib. 7.
• * 1.34

  Philand. in 4. lib. Vitr. cap. 7.
• * 1.35

  An. Pal. li. 1.
• * 1.36

  Vitr. lib. 1. cap. 2.
• * 1.37

  Apollod. lib. 1.
• * 1.38

  Boccace lib. 3.
• * 1.39

  Dioder. lib. 4.
• * 1.40

  Plu••. Phil. opin. lib. 1.
• * 1.41

  Rosin. lib. 2. cap. 5.
• * 1.42

  Pier. Valer. Hier. lib. 60.
• * 1.43

  Vitr. lib. 5.
• * 1.44

  Pier. Valer. Hier. lib. 39.
• * 1.45

  Dan. Barba. in lib. 4.
• * 1.46

  Vitr. cap. 7. in Ven. 1584.
• * 1.47

  Camd. fo. 8.