World-renowned archaeologist, Stonehenge expert Julian Richards to give public lecture in Whanganui

World-renowned archaeologist and Stonehenge expert Julian Richards will give a public lecture at Whanganui Regional Museum on January 29.

The mysterious history of one of the world’s most iconic wonders will be explored in detail in a Whanganui lecture by world-renowned expert Julian Richards.

The leading British archaeologist has been personally involved with Stonehenge for more than 40 years.

Richards will discuss his experience, the evolving theories on the ancient stone formation and more during his lecture “Stonehenge – Old Rocks, New Theories“ on Thursday, January 29.

Richards has previously shared his expertise in Whanganui, having helped Whanganui Regional Museum’s social and natural history curator (kaihāpai taonga) Maeve Egan identify artefacts in her exhibition Tools Through Time.

Whanganui Regional Museum kaihāpai taonga/curator Maeve Egan. Photo / Karen Hughes

Egan is the lead organiser of Richards’ lecture.

“Julian generously shared his expertise when I was identifying several objects for Tools Through Time, and his insight was invaluable,” Egan said.

“It’s a real privilege to welcome him back to Whanganui and to offer our community the chance to hear directly from someone who has helped develop our understanding of Stonehenge today.”

Richards is widely known for his work making complex archaeological research more accessible to the public through books, documentaries and broadcasts.

He has directed major research projects on prehistoric Britain, including at Stonehenge.

The public talk is at 7pm on Thursday, January 29, in the Davis Lecture Theatre at Whanganui Regional Museum.

Tickets are $20; half price for Museum Friends. Bookings are required – email info@wrm.org.nz or phone 06 349 1110.

The lecture will include allotted time for audience questions.