Time Traveling in Orkney: Uncovering the Neolithic Wonders
Orkney, a group of islands off the northeastern coast of Scotland, is a place where history comes to life. It's a destination where you can step back in time and explore some of the most remarkable Neolithic wonders on the planet.
In this blog post, we'll take you on a journey through Orkney's ancient past, where you'll discover the mysteries and marvels of these extraordinary sites.
Skara Brae: The Stone Age Village Frozen in Time
Found on the picturesque Bay of Skaill along the windswept west coast of Mainland, the largest island in the Orkney archipelago of Scotland, lies an astonishing archaeological treasure - Skara Brae. This stone-built Neolithic settlement is a remarkable testament to the ingenuity of our ancient ancestors.
Imagine wandering through a cluster of ten houses, each meticulously crafted from flagstones and nestled within earthen dams that provided crucial support for their walls. These houses weren't just simple structures; they were homes, complete with stone hearths for warmth, cozy beds for rest, and even cupboards for storing life's essentials.
But what truly sets Skara Brae apart is its advanced infrastructure. This ancient village boasted a primitive sewer system, complete with "toilets" and drains in every house. Water was ingeniously used to flush waste into a drain system that ultimately led it out to the vast ocean. This level of sanitation in a Neolithic society is nothing short of astounding.
Skara Brae's origins date back to roughly 3180 BC, and it remained a thriving community until about 2500 BC. To put its age into perspective, this village predates Stonehenge and the Great Pyramids of Giza, making it a time capsule of unparalleled historical significance. In fact, its remarkable preservation has earned it the moniker of the "Scottish Pompeii."
This is one of my favourite sites in the whole of Scotland and absolutely worth the trek up to Orkney to see it! Check out our 5-day tour from Edinburgh, where an expert guide will show you around this and many other neolithic ruins.
Maeshowe: The Enigmatic Tomb of Orkney
Continuing our journey through Orkney's rich tapestry of Neolithic wonders, we arrive at the enigmatic Maeshowe (sometimes spelled Maes Howe), a Neolithic chambered cairn and passage grave that beckons from the heart of Mainland Orkney, Scotland. Standing in silent testament to human ingenuity, Maeshowe is believed to have been constructed around 2800 BC, making it a marvel that predates the pyramids of Egypt.
In the annals of Scottish archaeology, Maeshowe stands as a luminary, lending its name to the Maeshowe type of chambered cairn, a classification unique to Orkney. But what truly sets this ancient tomb apart is its undeniable significance as a masterpiece of Neolithic craftsmanship.
Renowned archaeologist Stuart Piggott once described Maeshowe as "a superlative monument that by its originality of execution is lifted out of its class into a unique position." This accolade is well-earned, as the monument's design and execution are nothing short of remarkable. The precision with which it was constructed and the purpose it served continue to baffle and intrigue researchers to this day.
As you step into the dimly lit chambers of Maeshowe, you can't help but wonder about the mysteries it holds. Its intricate passageways and central chamber suggest a profound understanding of astronomy and the solstices. During the winter solstice, a remarkable phenomenon occurs when sunlight pierces through the narrow entrance passage, casting an ethereal light upon the interior—a celestial alignment that has fascinated generations.
The Ring of Brodgar: A Stone Circle of Mystery
Our journey through Orkney's captivating Neolithic wonders brings us to the mystical Ring of Brodgar, a site that has enthralled explorers, archaeologists, and dreamers for centuries. Also known as Brogar or the Ring o' Brodgar, this enigmatic place stands as a testament to the ingenuity of our ancient ancestors.
Imagine standing within the boundaries of an almost perfect circle, surrounded by towering stones that have borne witness to thousands of years of history. The Ring of Brodgar is a Neolithic henge and stone circle like no other in Britain; its near-perfect circularity sets it apart from the rest, ranking it among the greatest of such sites, alongside Avebury and Stonehenge.
Located on a narrow isthmus between the Lochs of Stenness and Harray, these imposing stones are the northernmost examples of circle henges in Britain. Unlike similar structures like Avebury, the Ring of Brodgar does not reveal any obvious stones within its circumference. However, its interior remains a mystery, as archaeologists have never excavated it. This leaves the tantalising possibility that hidden secrets, such as wooden structures, may yet be unveiled beneath the earth.
The age of the Ring of Brodgar remains shrouded in uncertainty, though it is generally believed to have been constructed between 2500 BC and 2000 BC. This makes it the last of the great Neolithic monuments built on the Ness. An excavation project known as "The Ring of Brodgar Excavation 2008" aimed to settle the age issue and shed light on other lingering questions. While results are still preliminary, the quest to unveil the mysteries of this ancient site continues.
In addition to these iconic sites, Orkney offers numerous other Neolithic treasures waiting to be discovered. From the intriguing Standing Stones of Stenness to the Tomb of the Eagles, where ancient artefacts were found, Orkney's archaeological wealth is a testament to the ingenuity and skill of its ancient inhabitants.
In conclusion, Orkney is a destination like no other, offering a unique opportunity to step back in time and explore the Neolithic wonders that have stood the test of millennia. Visiting places like Orkney, so rich in history and beauty, is made that much better with an expert guide of Scotland guiding you along the way.
Consider our 5-day Orkney tour or a private tour with us, and we’ll make sure you have the best time ever in Scotland!
