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There is a very simple reason why archaeological investigation is such an important activity on the land we manage. Only by developing our knowledge of the many archaeological sites, historic structures and cultural landscapes in our care can we understand how best to protect, conserve and present them.

Two men flying a drone

How we go about that is sometimes not so straightforward. Today, we use an array of survey techniques, including low altitude aerial photography and state-of-the-art laser scanning technology, to create amazingly detailed records. These are combined with traditional methods of excavation, written conservation statements and artistic reconstruction drawings.

Like a jigsaw, the larger picture is painstakingly built up from small pieces of evidence.

Find out more

Broch amongst brackenCaisteal Grugaig broch

Caisteal Grugaig is a fine example of an Iron Age broch. It stands on a rocky knoll overlooking Loch Alsh in the western Highlands.

Caisteal Grugaig broch

 

Archaeological dig siteCracknie souterrain

Looking after archaeological sites that are more than 2000 years old isn’t easy... especially when they are underground!

Cracknie souterrain

 

Neolithic rock artOrmaig Neolithic art

Illustration, photography and modern laser scanning techniques are helping us keep an accurate record of all significant historic assets on the land we manage.

Neolithic art at Ormaig

 

Stacked rocks on top of a hillArran’s Neolithic chambered tombs

Dotted about the island of Arran are numerous stone cairns in which our Neolithic ancestors buried their dead.

Arran’s Neolithic chambered tombs

 

Archaeologist clearing soil from stonesComar Wood dun

One of our forest rangers discovered the well-preserved ‘dun’ at Comar Wood near Cannich in Strathglass, stopping our forestry machines in their tracks!

Comar Wood dun

 

Stone fort overlooking seaKraiknish Dun

One of the most exciting things about investigating an archaeological site is being able to tell the story of the people who lived there.

Kraiknish Dun

 

Grassy hill topCastle O’er hillfort

Low-altitude aerial photography by remote-controlled drone or microcopter is helping archaeologists take a fresh look at ancient sites.

Castle O’er hillfort from above