The Barnhouse Settlement is a prehistoric village located on the island in Orkney, Scotland. The settlement was occupied from around 3300 to 2600 BC, during the Neolithic period. The site is notable for its large stone buildings, which are some of the earliest examples of stone architecture in Britain. The settlement is named after a nearby farm called “Barnhouse.”
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What is the historical significance of the Barnhouse Settlement?
The Barnhouse Settlement holds a unique place in history as one of the earliest known examples of a permanent, planned village. Its existence challenges previous notions that societies of this era were nomadic or semi-nomadic. The village’s layout, with houses and communal spaces carefully arranged, suggests a complex social structure and advanced planning. The presence of large ceremonial structures indicates that Barnhouse was not just a place of dwelling, but also of significant ritual activity. The Barnhouse Settlement, therefore, provides valuable insights into the social and religious practices of Neolithic people.
What archaeological discoveries have been made at the Barnhouse Settlement?
Excavations at the Barnhouse Settlement have unearthed a wealth of archaeological treasures. The site includes at least 15 houses, each with a central hearth and stone furniture. The most notable structure is the ‘House 2’, which is much larger than the others and contains unique architectural features, suggesting it had a special status. Pottery, stone tools, and animal bones have also been found, providing insights into the daily lives of the inhabitants. Perhaps the most significant discovery is the ‘Barnhouse Stone’, a standing stone located near the settlement, which is believed to have been used in astronomical observations.
What is the historical significance of the Barnhouse Settlement?
In addition to its architectural significance, the Barnhouse Settlement is also historically significant for its association with the nearby Stones of Stenness and the Ring of Brodgar. These stone circles, along with the Barnhouse Settlement, form a complex of ceremonial sites that were likely used in conjunction for religious and social activities. The proximity of these sites suggests that Barnhouse was a central hub in a wider ceremonial landscape, reinforcing its importance in Neolithic society.
What era does the Settlement belong to, and what does it tell us about that period?
The Barnhouse Settlement belongs to the Neolithic era, a period marked by the transition from nomadic hunting and gathering to settled farming. The presence of a permanent, planned village like Barnhouse suggests that this transition was well underway in Orkney by 3300 BC. The large, stone-built houses indicate a significant investment in permanent structures, suggesting a stable, settled community. The variety of tools and pottery found at the site also indicate a diversified economy, with inhabitants engaged in farming, crafting, and possibly trade. The Barnhouse Settlement, therefore, provides a snapshot of a pivotal moment in human history, when societies were becoming more complex and settled.
Conclusion and Sources
In conclusion, the Barnhouse Settlement is a significant archaeological site that provides valuable insights into Neolithic society. Its well-planned layout, substantial stone buildings, and association with nearby ceremonial sites all point to a complex, settled community with advanced social and religious practices. Further research and excavation at the site are likely to yield even more information about this fascinating period in history.
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