Skara Brae

Synopsis

The Neolithic village known as Skara Brae was continuously occupied for about 300 to 400 years, before being abandoned around 2500 BC. Despite severe coastal erosion, eight houses and a workshop have survived largely intact, with their stone furniture still in place. This is the best-preserved settlement of its period in northern Europe, and thousands of artefacts were discovered during excavations of the site. Who lived here? How did they live? And why did they ultimately abandon the village? In this lively account, Dr David Clarke, who led major excavations at Orkney's Skara Brae, describes the details of the site and explores some of the enigmas posed by this extraordinary survival.

Summary

Chapter 1: A Buried Landscape

* Introduction to Skara Brae, a 5,000-year-old Neolithic settlement on the Orkney Islands.
* Discovery of the site in 1850 revealed a complex of stone houses buried under centuries of sand.

Real Example: The initial excavation of Skara Brae by David Price uncovered ten well-preserved houses, providing an unprecedented glimpse into prehistoric life.

Chapter 2: The Neolithic World

* Examination of the Neolithic period, characterized by advancements in agriculture, toolmaking, and settlement planning.
* Skara Brae as a prime example of a Neolithic village, with evidence of specialized crafts and social organization.

Real Example: The discovery of carved stone balls at Skara Brae suggests the existence of a ritual or ceremonial aspect to the settlement.

Chapter 3: Life in Skara Brae

* Reconstruction of daily life in Skara Brae based on archaeological evidence.
* The houses, with their hearths, storage areas, and sleeping platforms, provide insights into domestic arrangements.
* Artifacts such as pottery, tools, and jewelry reveal the range of activities carried out within the village.

Real Example: The presence of loom weights indicates that the inhabitants engaged in weaving, while the abundance of fishing hooks suggests a reliance on marine resources.

Chapter 4: The Riddle of the Sand

* Analysis of the environmental conditions that led to the preservation and burial of Skara Brae.
* Natural processes, including wind erosion and sand deposition, played a crucial role in forming the protective layer that shielded the settlement for centuries.

Real Example: The local sandstone used in the construction of Skara Brae proved highly durable and resistant to the harsh coastal environment.

Chapter 5: Legacy and Preservation

* Discussion of the enduring fascination with Skara Brae and its importance as an archaeological site.
* The challenges and strategies involved in preserving and managing the fragile remnants of this ancient village.

Real Example: The establishment of the Skara Brae Visitor Centre in 1971 has helped educate the public about the significance of the site and ensure its protection.