Summer Solstice at Stonehenge: One Reveler Claims Royal Reincarnation [PICTURES]

Every year on the Summer Solstice, thousands flock to Stonehenge to celebrate the longest day of the year.

The stones of the ancient, mysterious rock formation align with the rising and setting sun on Solstices, resulting in a breathtaking spectacle.

Many of Summer Solstice revelers are neo-pagans, there to honor their belief that Stonehenge was the site of ancient pagan rituals and to honor the sun - or Sol - as a source of life.

The term 'solstice' is derived from the Latin words sol sistere - meaning sun stand still.

One of these neopagans is Arthur Pendagron, a well-known druid (member of a pagan religious order) who believes he is the reincarnation of the legendary King Arthur Pendagron and who has long fought for public access to the Stonehedge rock formation while opposing the fact that it is flanked by busy public roads.

Open access is permitted on the Summer Solstice but the site is protected during most days of the year.

The druid, who was born John Rothwell, prefers to be called simply Arthur.

[Sources: The Guardian; The Pagan and the Pen; Sacred-Destinations.com]