Breachacha crannog, Archaeological lake dwelling in Coll, Scotland.
Breachacha crannog is an oval structure made of stone and earth located on the island of Coll in Scotland. The site preserves the remains of an ancient water dwelling with a base measuring roughly 26 by 21 meters and standing about 2 meters high above the surrounding ground level.
The dwelling arose in the Iron Age or early medieval times and served as a home for centuries before the surrounding loch was drained around 1875. This drainage project transformed the water-based settlement into an earthen mound within a farming field.
This settlement reflects how communities in the Iron Age and medieval times built homes near water for both practical and defensive reasons. The construction methods visible here show the engineering skills that were common among Scottish populations during these periods.
Visiting this protected site requires advance permission from Historic Environment Scotland before you arrive. The location on the island of Coll means that planning your journey and accommodation in advance is important for a successful visit.
A 1995 excavation uncovered five semicircular pits that were cut into the structure at some point after its initial construction. The purpose of these mysterious depressions remains unclear despite further study.
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