Maeshowe and the Heart of Neolithic Orkney

The chambered tomb of Maeshowe, a Neolithic site in Orkney, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site with stone circles, villages, and burial monuments. Visitors can explore Neolithic houses, henges, and ceremonial centers such as Skara Brae, Barnhouse, the Stones of Stenness, and the Ring of Brodgar.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 64 pages
Publication date: 09 March 2023
Publisher: Historic Environment Scotland

Nestled within one of the most affluent and remarkably preserved Neolithic landscapes in all of Europe, the chambered tomb of Maeshowe stands as a testament to the rich tapestry of human history. This remarkable site served as a vibrant hub, teeming with stone circles, bustling villages, and awe-inspiring burial monuments. It was a place where people forged their lives, offered sacrifices to their deities, and paid reverence to their departed loved ones. The surviving remnants of this ancient civilization shed light on a time when Orkney thrived as a bustling center, its influence extending far beyond its borders.

In addition to the awe-inspiring Maeshowe, visitors to the Heart of Neolithic Orkney have the opportunity to explore a wealth of remarkable Neolithic structures. Skara Brae, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, boasts a collection of remarkably well-preserved Neolithic houses, providing a glimpse into the lives of these early inhabitants. Nearby, the dramatic stone-circled henges of the Stones of Stenness and the Ring of Brodgar stand as silent witnesses to the ingenuity and craftsmanship of our ancestors. Moreover, the ongoing excavation at Ness of Brodgar, a ceremonial center that holds immense historical significance, continues to unravel the secrets of this ancient civilization.

The importance of the Heart of Neolithic Orkney was officially recognized in 1999 when a select group of its most iconic monuments were designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This prestigious accolade serves as a testament to the immense cultural and historical value of this remarkable region. This book aims to serve as a guide, enabling readers to delve into the depths of the Site and discover the numerous related monuments that dot the surrounding area. By exploring the pages within, we hope to foster a deeper understanding and appreciation for the rich heritage of the Heart of Neolithic Orkney, a testament to the enduring legacy of our ancestors.

Weight: 264g
Dimension: 246 x 189 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781849172479