Archaeology
Raasay: An Introduction to its Archaeological Monuments: By Martin Wildgoose ©
Iron Age
This way of life continues, virtually unchanged, into the following Iron Age (2300-1300 years ago). Iron has replaced bronze as the main component of tools and weapons, giving sharper edges and more versatile implements. Circular houses are still the norm, now smaller and often gathered in groups, perhaps reflecting the loss of larger trees for roof timbers, or the break-up of the ‘all under one roof’ nucleated family. A peaceful life, judging be the remains of Duns and Brochs, is less certain and hidden, (underground), storage of foodstuffs is necessary.
The ethnic affiliation of the population at this time is not certainly known, but it is likely that it is Pictish judging by the survival of symbol stones at Clachan. On Raasay evidence of the Iron Age is plentiful with many circular houses clustered around the now abandoned 20th century iron mines – perhaps an indication of extraction and smelting in Raasay’s Iron Age past. A well preserved dun (Dun Borodale) survives on the hill behind Inverarish and underground storage chambers (Souterrains) survive at Suisnish and opposite the Old Post Office by Raasay House.
Pictish Symbol Stones can be seen at The Battery below Raasay House and by the roadside just to the north of the house.
| Iron Age | 1100 years ago | Medieval Centuries |
