Skara Brae, Orkney, a well-preserved Neolithic village from 3100-2400 BC. Photo by Wknight94.
Orkney, sometimes known incorrectly as the Orkneys, is a collection of 70 islands about 10 miles (16 kms) north of the Scottish mainland.
The Ring of Brodgar, Orkney island
The group of four Neolithic sites known as ‘Heart of Neolithic Orkney‘ compose a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
• Skara Brae is considered by many to be one of the world’s best Neolithic sites as it was superbly preserved by a sudden, massive sandstorm, forcing its inhabitants to flee and leave many possessions behind. It remained buried until exposed by a storm in 1850. It was excavated in 1932. Skara Brae was a village settlement about 5, 000 years ago, with mostly ground-sunk houses probably roofed with driftwood and turf, with a few stone walls. The dwellings were quite sophisticated including drainage, toilets, cupboards, beds and seats.
• Maeshowe is a well-constructed tomb complex of huge stones and turf.
• Standing Stones of Stenness are the remnants of another stone circle less than a mile from Ring of Brodgar and Maeshowe. Four of the stones are up to 5m (16ft) high.
• The Ring of Brodgar is a circle of standing stones 104 metres in diameter set amidst other stones and prehistoric tombs. Photo by Chmee2 in summertime. Note the weather conditions!
More Orkney Information