Archaeologists have uncovered evidence of a previously unknown prehistoric circle buried beneath the landscape at Machrie Moor on the Isle of Arran, adding a significant new chapter to one of Scotland’s most important ancient ceremonial sites.
The discovery, announced by Historic Environment Scotland (HES), was made during a geophysical survey that identified the remains of what is believed to be either a stone or timber circle hidden beneath the peat moorland.
Using advanced non-invasive scanning technology, HES archaeologists detected a series of underground anomalies that revealed 12 circular pit-like features arranged in a ring, with space for two additional settings. Although no stones remain within the pits, researchers believe the monument may originally have consisted of standing stones or timber posts.
The survey was led by Dr Nick Hannon, Senior Heritage Recording Manager at HES, who described the find as an unexpected breakthrough.
“We are tremendously excited about this new discovery,” Dr Hannon said. “We know that there is a lot of archaeology yet to uncover at Machrie Moor, but the discovery of a new circle completely surpassed our expectations.”
Machrie Moor is internationally recognised for its remarkable concentration of Neolithic and Bronze Age monuments dating from around 3500 BCE to 1500 BCE. The landscape is home to six known stone circles, standing stones, burial cairns and cists, making it one of Scotland’s richest prehistoric archaeological landscapes.
Previous excavations have shown that several of the existing stone circles were originally timber circles before being rebuilt in stone, raising the possibility that the newly discovered monument followed a similar pattern.
Archaeologists believe the buried circle was likely constructed during the same period as the other ceremonial monuments at Machrie Moor. These circles are thought to have played a central role in ritual and ceremonial activities carried out by Neolithic and Bronze Age farming communities. Many are aligned with a distinctive notch at the head of Machrie Glen, where the midsummer sunrise would have been visible.
Over time, several of the circles were also used for burial practices, including cremations and inhumations, possibly for prominent members of the local community. Researchers believe the newly identified circle may have served a similar purpose, although further archaeological investigation will be needed to confirm its function.
Dr Hannon said advances in archaeological technology are transforming the way researchers explore historic landscapes.
“The tools we use to learn about what’s underground are constantly developing, and we can learn more and more about our buried history without disturbing the earth and potentially damaging archaeological remains,” he said.
“Discoveries like this one remind us why we do this work – to look after Scotland’s heritage and uncover more of our past in the process.”
Historic Environment Scotland has published the full survey report on its online archive, while additional information about the Machrie Moor Standing Stones is available through the organisation’s website.
Sources : HES
