#protestvandalism

Use gentle, non-abrasive cleaning methods:

Avoid harsh chemicals, acids, or high-pressure washing that can damage the porous, ancient stones[3][4]

Mild detergents, soft brushes, and low-pressure water rinsing are recommended for surface cleaning[4][5]

Specialized stone cleaning products like calcium carbonate nodules or fine particle abrasives may be used with care[3]

Thoroughly test cleaning methods first:

Always test any cleaning method on a small, inconspicuous area of the stones first to ensure it does not cause damage[4]

Assess the condition of the stones (mineral deposits, erosion, cracks) to determine appropriate gentle cleaning techniques[4]

Hire experienced professional conservators:

For a monument as significant as Stonehenge, it is crucial to hire stone conservation experts and professionals with experience working on historic sites[4]

They have the specialized knowledge, techniques, and equipment to clean ancient stones safely and effectively

Avoid sealants or coatings:

Sealants are generally not recommended for ancient, porous stones like those at Stonehenge as they can cause unintended damage over time[5]

Thoroughly rinse and dry stones:

Any cleaning residue left on the stones can potentially cause further deterioration, so thorough rinsing with water is essential[4]

The stones must be completely dried after cleaning to prevent moisture penetration and damage[4]

Document and record all conservation work:

Extensive documentation of the cleaning process, including before/after photos, condition assessments, and methods used should be maintained for such an iconic heritage site[3]

The overarching principle is to use the gentlest, least invasive methods possible to clean Stonehenge's prehistoric stones while preserving their integrity. Proper testing, hiring qualified experts, and detailed documentation are critical for responsible conservation of this irreplaceable ancient monument.