Ness of Brodgar

Ness of Brodgar is an archaeological site from the New Stone Age in the Orkney Islands of northern Scotland. The excavation area lies between two known stone circles and covers the remains of stone buildings and structures from this early period.

Stone builders erected buildings here from 3500 BC with thick walls that served as gathering places. The complex underwent several changes and was abandoned around 2200 BC after a final large ceremony.

Craftspeople of the New Stone Age shaped finely decorated stones and pottery visible in the finds today, showing a developed society. These communities used specialist tools for their daily work and ritual activities, making their skills visible across thousands of years.

The excavation area will be covered with grass from August 2024 to protect the old remains from weather damage. Visitors should check in advance whether and when the site is still open, as it will then be preserved for future research.

Structure 10 shows traces of a large closing ceremony where hundreds of cattle were slaughtered before the building was sealed. These finds document a major ritual event at the end of use of this complex.

Location: Orkney Islands

Part of: Heart of Neolithic Orkney

Website: https://nessofbrodgar.co.uk

GPS coordinates: 58.99722,-3.21556

Latest update: December 20, 2025 00:06