Broch of Mousa, Iron Age tower in Dunrossness, Shetland Islands, United Kingdom
Broch of Mousa is an Iron Age tower on Mousa Island off the coast of Dunrossness in the Shetland Islands. The double-walled construction tapers toward the top and reaches approximately 13 meters (43 feet), while a narrow stairway inside leads up to the viewing platform.
The fortress was built around 300 BC and served as protection against raiders. Norse sagas mention the tower several centuries later as a refuge for shipwrecked sailors and fugitives.
The name comes from Old Norse and describes the circular shape of this fortress. Locals recognize the form immediately, as it reflects a building tradition found only in northern Scotland.
The island is reached by ferry, which operates only from April to September. Climbing inside is narrow and requires some care, especially when descending in the dim stairway.
Storm petrels nest in the gaps of the thick walls and return every breeding season. At night their calls can be heard from inside the old stonework.
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