Jarlshof, Archaeological site in Dunrossness, Shetland Islands, United Kingdom.
The archaeological complex features a sequence of stone structures including oval houses, a broch, and Norse longhouses spread across multiple levels.
The settlement spans from 2500 BCE to 1700 CE, revealing continuous habitation through the Bronze Age, Iron Age, Pictish, Norse, and Medieval periods.
Norse inhabitants of Jarlshof developed a mixed economy based on deep-sea fishing and wool production, demonstrated by recovered tools and building layouts.
The site remains open throughout the year, with extended visiting hours from April to September and an interpretation center displaying excavated artifacts.
A severe coastal storm in the late 1800s eroded the shoreline, exposing the ancient structures that had remained hidden beneath the soil.
Location: Shetland Islands
Location: Dunrossness
GPS coordinates: 59.86937,-1.29103
Latest update: May 27, 2025 10:00
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