Excavation and Survey of Sub-peat Features of Neolithic, Bronze and Iron Age Date at Bharpa Carinish, North Uist, Scotland

Abstract

Excavation and survey has revealed evidence of activity around the long cairn, Caravat Barp during the Neolithic, Bronze and Iron Ages. A series of three hearth complexes comprising stone-built hearths within an ash/charcoal spread associated with post-holes and pits were the earliest features on the site. A large sub-rectangular stone enclosure was built soon after peat had begun developing over the area. When the peat had developed to a thickness of 0.2 m another fence line was laid down, apparently utilizing the earlier enclosure. Finally, a small cairn was formed just west of the long cairn. Palynological work was carried out to establish the nature of the contemporary environment while the macrofossil record was analysed in terms of wood use and the foodstuffs available.