December 21st 2023 – 4pm – 5pm – Virtual Ticket

One function of the large earthwork complexes, such as the one found at Marietta, was to track the passage of seasons through astronomical observations. Aligned with the parallel walls of “Sacra Via” is the winter solstice sunset. On December 21st at 4pm join The Castle’s archaeologist Wes Clarke for this year’s solstice sunset watch at Sacra Via Park either in person or virtually. During this program, Wes will discuss the astronomical alignments of Marietta’s mound structures.

Program takes place at Sacra Via Park (between Third and Second Streets.) Rain or Shine.

This offering is free. Donations are encouraged.

Here’s what you need to know:

Because our Solstice Watch is weather-dependent, our broadcast activities can vary. Use the map provided to orient yourself to where sightings are located. The Sacra Via location is indicated with a blue dot at the base of a heavy arrow pointing toward the solstice sunset. The Quadranaou platform mound location is indicated with a red dot at the base of another arrow.

If sighting conditions are good, we will start with a brief discussion and viewing on the long Sacra Via alignment (blue dot), originally extending between the huge parallel walls of the earthwork complex. We then shift location to the Quadranaou platform mound (red dot), where we can witness the solstice alignment again due to a change in elevation. Here the alignment crosses two access ramps on the mound perimeter. During our relocation from Sacra Via to Quadranaou, the virtual feed will stop for a few minutes.

If sighting conditions are not good but there is no precipitation, we will still provide comments virtually from both the Sacra Via and Quadranaou locations, with a break in the feed while relocating.

If there is precipitation or conditions are otherwise poor, we will provide comments from a gazebo shelter on Sacra Via, but will not relocate to Quadranaou.

Click Here To View The Map

To make your virtual reservation:

• Enter the dollar amount you would like to donate in the “name your price” section and click “Book Ticket.”
• After checkout you will receive the Zoom registration link where you can register for the virtual event

If you have any questions please contact us at [email protected].

*This webinar may be recorded for future use*