Builders of massive ancient monument understood the science behind their work.

The Dolmen of Menga, a 6000-year-old megalith in southern Spain, was built with a sophisticated understanding of engineering and scientific principles, according to a study published in Science Advances. The monument's builders demonstrated knowledge of physics, geometry, and geology, and their construction methods reflect a process of trial, error, and learning similar to modern scientific problem-solving. The researchers analyzed archival photographs, excavation records, and laser scan data to uncover the techniques used to create the monument, including embedding stones deep into the bedrock for stability and using the principle of the arch. This study challenges the perception that prehistoric societies lacked scientific capabilities and highlights the scientific mindset of Neolithic people. [Extracted from the article]