Högehall, a unique ski resort, holds a fascinating allure due to its enigmatic ancient monument believed to possess astronomical functions. This under-recognized stone, nestled within the resort's landscape, carries no documented legends or stories, adding to its mysterious charm.
The stone, presumably from the Iron Age, is intriguingly punctured with a small, slightly oval hole. This hole, approximately 11cm long and 7cm high, exhibits worn edges, hinting at its age and possible significance. This peculiar hole might stem from the time when the stone was first erected, and it is suggested that the stone may have been used as a solar calendar during ancient times.
The stone's possible purpose as a calendar is intriguing. Similar to megalithic monuments of antiquity, which were strategically oriented to observe the sun's movements during solstices and equinoxes, the stone at Högehall may serve a similar purpose. From certain vantage points and at particular times of the year, the last rays of the setting sun can be viewed through the stone's hole, illuminating its potential function as a solar calendar.
Significantly, on April 29 and August 13, the sun sets perpendicular to the stone's surface, allowing for a captivating sight of the sun through the stone's hole. These dates coincide with periods halfway between the vernal equinox and the summer solstice, and halfway between the summer solstice and the autumnal equinox, suggesting their importance to the ancient people who erected the stone. Interestingly, these dates also align with the sunrise along the Uppsala mounds, dating from AD 500.
Overall, the Högehall ski resort, home to this intriguing ancient stone monument, presents a captivating blend of recreational activity and historical intrigue, offering a truly unique skiing experience.
