Archaeologists in northern Scotland have made an extraordinary discovery: the remains of a Neolithic tomb dating back 5,000 years. Despite suffering extensive damage in the 19th century, the tomb has yielded human remains and artifacts, offering valuable insights into ancient burial practices.
Discovering the Neolithic Tomb
Situated in the parish of Holm on Mainland, Orkney, the Neolithic tomb stands as a testament to ancient engineering prowess. Measuring over 15 meters (49 feet) in diameter, the stone structure features a 7-meter (23 feet) long passage leading to a large sub-rectangular chamber surrounded by six cells with corbelled stone roofs. This architectural marvel, classified as a “Maes Howe-type” passage grave, is one of only twelve such tombs ever discovered in Orkney.
A Remarkable Excavation Journey
The tomb, nestled in a pasture field, had its stones repurposed for a nearby farmhouse in the late 18th or early 19th century. However, traces of its original purpose were revealed in 1896 when artifacts and human remains were unearthed. Thanks to modern geophysical techniques, archaeologists were able to locate the tomb once again in 2021, leading to the discovery of fourteen articulated skeletons and numerous artifacts, shedding light on the lives of ancient Orkney inhabitants.
Insights from the Past
The excavation unearthed pottery, stone tools, and a bone pin, offering glimpses into the material culture of Neolithic Orkney. The presence of human remains, including those of men, women, and children, underscores the tomb’s significance as a burial site. Dr. Hugo Anderson-Whymark described the discovery as “incredible,” highlighting the importance of preserving such ancient monuments for future study.
Unraveling Ancient Mysteries
As archaeologists delve deeper into the tomb’s orientation and alignment, questions arise about its possible function as a “hierophany” – a manifestation of the sacred in the mundane world. Similar to other archaeological sites like Maes Howe in Orkney and Newgrange in Ireland, which are aligned with celestial phenomena, the Neolithic tomb in Holm may hold clues to ancient religious practices embedded in its architecture.
Looking Ahead
The excavation of the Neolithic tomb in Orkney promises to provide fresh perspectives on the lives and beliefs of ancient peoples. With ongoing research and analysis, archaeologists aim to unravel the mysteries surrounding this ancient burial site, offering valuable insights into Scotland’s rich archaeological heritage.
