 |
|
Scotland |
Broch of Gurness
Summary
A well preserved Iron Age broch with a surrounding settlement, with evidence
of later use during the Norse period.
When was it built?
Gurness was built in the 1st century AD. It consisted of
a tall central tower surrounded by three concentric rings of earthworks
and ditches, with access by way of a causeway on the eastern end
of the site. The area within these defenses was filled with domestic
buildings, the foundations of which are clearly visible. At the height
of its prosperity these buildings would have supported a small community
of up to 40 people. We don't know the original height of the broch.
The walls now stand to a height of 3.5 metres at their tallest, and
it appears that after the settlement was abandoned the walls were
partly dismantled in order to use the stones for other building projects.
Within the broch
The first thing you notice when entering is the sheer mass and width
of the walls. It is no wonder they still stand after the passage
of so many centuries! Within the enclosure the original central
hearth is clearly visible, as is the underground tank for water.
Large upright slabs help divide the space into chambers, and in one
corner a well-worn quern, or grinding stone, can be seen.
The settlement
The remains of the settlement surrounding the broch offers a wonderful
glimpse into Pictish life. There is one very large rectangular building,
divided into five chambers, and several smaller buildings, some of
which may have served as workshop areas. One large building has been
suggested as a possible Norse Hall. This hypothesis was given some
credence when the grave of a Viking woman
was discovered nearby.
Getting There
Gurness is located on a minor road off the A966 from Finstown
to Evie. The turning is well signposted from the A966. There is good
parking on the shores of the sea facing Rousay. Look carefully along
the shore near the car park; we noticed some curious seals watching
us as we walked to the broch.
Our verdict
A very well-preserved
broch. What is fascinating here are the remains of later settlements
on the site. Well worth a visit. Our children, ages 5 and 11, very
much enjoyed Gurness, as it offered lots of nooks and crannies, and
small passages just their size. The visitor centre also offered some
entertaining and educational hands-on activities for the younger
generation.
Details
Broch of Gurness
Aikerness
Mainland
Orkney
Highlands and Islands
Scotland
Location: NW Kirkwall, off the A966
Website: Broch of Gurness
Phone: 0831 579478
OS HY 381268
Orkney Attractions by type
All attractions (big
page!)
Ancient/Prehistoric
Museums
Historic Properties
Countryside
Historic Churches
|
