Links of Noltland, Archaeological settlement in Westray, Scotland
Links of Noltland is an archaeological site with remains of more than 30 buildings from different periods buried beneath sand dunes on Westray's northern coast. The excavated structures show houses, stone features, and passages spanning thousands of years of settlement.
Settlement at this location began around 3300 BC and continued until about 800 BC, showing both Neolithic and Bronze Age occupation. The evidence reveals how island communities survived and adapted over two major periods of prehistory.
The site reflects how families settled together in this remote location and organized their living spaces along the coast. The stone structures and household items found here show how people adapted to life in these northern islands.
The site is accessible during the excavation season from May through September when researchers are present and can share information. Visitors should wear sturdy shoes and be prepared for changing coastal weather and sandy terrain.
A small carved stone figure called the Westray Wife was found here, showing one of Scotland's oldest depictions of a human face. This ancient artwork reveals that people living in these islands possessed artistic skills and creative thinking thousands of years ago.
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