Writing

Books, research and articles

Four non-fiction history books, peer-reviewed research and more than 2,200 articles on prehistoric archaeology and ancient sciences.

Cover of Ropes and Ruins by Ashley Cowie
New book

Ropes and Ruins

An exploration of Neolithic Orkney that redefines our understanding of ancient craftsmanship. Through the geometry and architecture of Orkney's megalithic sites, it reveals a long-overlooked prehistoric technology: rope production and measuring skills.

The book challenges Professor Alexander Thom's theories about elite astronomer-priests, and shows how ropes, geometry and stonework combined to create one of history's most extraordinary prehistoric landscapes.

More books

Research articles

Archaeoastronomy, mythology and sacred geography

Delineating Tiwanaku's Mountain Meridian

This study unveils new perspectives on the territorial planning, orientations, and alignments of Tiwanaku’s monumental pyramid, enclosures, and semi-sunken temples, revealing a previously unexplored architectural schema. Central to this investigation is the concept of an uncharted prime meridian, or "mountain axis," which likely guided Tiwanaku’s architects, builders, and priests in aligning the city’s sacred structures with a prominent mountain summit to the south.

Read More