The Broch of Gurness, a spectacular Iron Age site is located on the coast of Orkney, Scotland. It provides a unique insight into the lives and culture of the ancient Celts who inhabited the region. This remarkably well-preserved site, with its fascinating architectural features and rich archaeological finds, is a testament to the complex society that thrived in the Orkney Islands over two thousand years ago.
| History | Discovery | Layout | Ritual |
In this article, we will explore the history, layout, and significance of the Broch of Gurness, offering a captivating journey through the Celtic past of Scotland.
Historical Background: Scotland’s Iron Age
The Iron Age in Scotland, which spanned from approximately 800 BCE to 500 CE, was a time of cultural and technological innovation. The construction of brochs, a type of complex stone tower unique to Scotland, emerged during this period. Brochs served as defensive structures, community centers, and symbols of power, reflecting the hierarchical nature of Iron Age society.
The Broch of Gurness, located on the western coast of Orkney’s mainland, was constructed around the 1st century BCE. The site was occupied for several centuries, undergoing various modifications and expansions over time. It was eventually abandoned, possibly due to changing political or environmental factors.
Discovery and Excavation: Unearthing a Celtic Settlement
The Broch of Gurness was first brought to the attention of archaeologists in the 1920s, when erosion exposed the remains of the structure. In 1929, the site was acquired by the Office of Works, a precursor to Historic Environment Scotland, which began the process of excavation and preservation.
Excavations were conducted under the direction of John Hedges and Vere Gordon Childe between 1930 and 1939. Their work revealed the impressive scale and complexity of the site, including the central broch tower, surrounding village, and outer defenses. Further archaeological investigations took place in the 1960s and 1970s, led by Euan MacKie, John Barber, and David Lynn, which provided additional insights into the function, chronology, and social organization of the settlement.
Architectural Marvel: Broch of Gurness’ Unique Layout
The Broch of Gurness is characterized by a series of concentric enclosures, with the central broch tower at its core. The broch itself is a dry stone structure, standing approximately 8 meters tall, with walls up to 4 meters thick. The interior of the broch features a series of small chambers and a stairway leading to the upper levels, which may have been used for storage, living quarters, or defensive purposes.
Surrounding the broch is a stone-walled village, consisting of numerous small, circular houses, interconnected by a network of paved paths. The village is organized into several distinct clusters, separated by courtyards and open spaces, suggesting a degree of social organization and community planning. The outermost enclosure is defined by a substantial stone wall, punctuated by entranceways and defensive towers, which served to protect the inhabitants from potential threats.
Life in an Ancient Settlement: Celtic Daily Routines
The inhabitants of the Broch of Gurness lived a predominantly agricultural lifestyle, cultivating crops such as barley and oats, and raising livestock, including cattle, sheep, and pigs. They supplemented their diet with wild plants, fish, and shellfish from the nearby coast. The presence of spindle whorls, loom weights, and other artifacts associated with textile production indicates that the inhabitants also engaged in weaving and other craft activities.
Pottery was an important aspect of daily life, and the inhabitants of the Broch of Gurness produced a variety of ceramic vessels, including cooking pots, storage jars, and bowls. The pottery found at the site is characterized by its distinctive decoration, featuring incised lines and geometric patterns, which provides valuable information about the artistic tastes and cultural connections of the inhabitants.
Metalworking was another important craft activity at the Broch of Gurness, with evidence of bronze and iron production found at the site. Metal artifacts, such as brooches, pins, and tools, highlight the skill and expertise of the local craftsmen. The presence of imported materials, such as Roman glass, indicates that the inhabitants of the Broch of Gurness participated in long-distance trade networks, exchanging goods with communities across the British Isles and beyond.
Spiritual Beliefs: Religion and Rituals in Iron Age Orkney
The religious beliefs and practices of the inhabitants of the Broch of Gurness remain somewhat enigmatic, as few overtly religious artifacts have been discovered at the site. However, it is likely that they practiced a form of Celtic polytheism, worshipping a pantheon of gods and goddesses associated with the natural world, agriculture, and other aspects of daily life. The presence of small stone altars and offerings of animal bones, pottery, and other objects at the site suggest that ritual activities took place within the settlement.
The Broch of Gurness is also located in close proximity to several other important prehistoric sites, including the Ring of Brodgar and the Standing Stones of Stenness, which may have held religious or ceremonial significance for the inhabitants. The connection between these sites highlights the broader cultural landscape of the Orkney Islands during the Iron Age, and the shared beliefs and practices that united the various communities across the region.
Visiting the Broch of Gurness
The Broch of Gurness is now a popular tourist destination, managed by Historic Environment Scotland. The site is open to visitors year-round, offering a unique opportunity to explore the well-preserved remains of this ancient Celtic settlement. Interpretive panels and guided tours provide additional information about the history, architecture, and daily life of the inhabitants, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the world of the Iron Age Celts.
Ongoing archaeological research and conservation efforts ensure that the Broch of Gurness remains a valuable resource for scholars and the public alike. The site continues to yield new insights into the complex society that once thrived on the Orkney Islands, enriching our understanding of Scotland’s ancient past.
Places to Stay near Broch of Gurness
