Knowes of Trotty

content

Orkney College/Orkney Archaeological Trust excavation - Harray, Mainland, Orkney

Large scale geophysical and topographic survey of this Bronze Age burial cemetery, the only one of its kind in northern Britain. In 2005 excavations focussed on the re-opening of the largest mound from which gold and amber artefacts had been found in 19th century – as a result there first radiocarbon date associated with an amber necklace in Britain has been obtained.

2005-6 excavations also revealed an early Neolithic house with a very rare find of an associated pottery kiln. Further investigation of pottery kiln planned. Funded by Historic Scotland and Orkney Islands Council.

content

Archaeological dig

Site under excavation.

Archaeological dig

Early Neolithic house.

Archaeological dig

Mound 1 cist re-excavated following 1850s investigations.

Observing a dig

Local interest in the excavations was high.