Dùn Anlaimh, Ancient crannog in Loch nan Cinneachan, Scotland
Dùn Anlaimh is a fortified island settlement in a Scottish loch with several rectangular buildings arranged in a line across its surface. The structures sit on an engineered or reinforced island that provided both defense and command over the water.
The settlement was built in the late Middle Ages by people seeking safety and strategic control over the water. The island was designed as a defended home to protect residents from attack.
The name comes from Scottish Gaelic and reflects the heritage of the Highland region. Today, the site shows how people once chose water-based locations for protection and daily living.
The site is reached by a partially submerged causeway from the eastern shore that crosses shallow water of about 1 to 1.5 meters deep. Visitors should be prepared for wet conditions and wear suitable footwear, as access depends on water levels.
A specialized boat landing inlet in the southwest corner of the island shows how residents relied on water transport and trade. This access point allowed direct contact with other communities on the loch and distant areas beyond.
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