Dunadd, Iron Age hilltop fort in Kilmartin Glen, Scotland
Dunadd is an Iron Age fort built on a rocky hilltop in Kilmartin Valley, Scotland. The site spreads across multiple terraces with stone walls that create defensive levels at different heights.
From the 6th to 8th centuries, this served as the royal seat of the kingdom of Dal Riata and a center of Celtic power. The location saw the rise of early Scottish kingship during this period.
The name comes from Gaelic meaning "fort," reflecting its ancient Celtic identity. The layout reveals how people organized themselves across terraces, each level serving different daily purposes from defense to craft work.
A designated parking area sits at the base with a well-maintained path climbing to the summit. The slope is moderate, but the ground can be slippery when wet, so sturdy footwear is helpful.
At the summit lies a carved footprint stone used during royal inauguration ceremonies, a rare feature that marked the moment rulers claimed authority. This physical symbol shows how power was declared and witnessed in ancient times.
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