Archaeologists to dig at Mesolithic bay where hunter-gatherers once lived on Skye
This article originally appeared on Culture24.
Excavations at Staffin Bay could reveal prehistoric roundhouse and help to enhance Ecomuseum
Dinosaur prints were discovered on Staffin in 2002© Staffin Community TrustEmbarking on North Skye’s first archaeological excavation for 20 years, the University of the Highlands and Islands Archaeology Institute is targeting a set of Prehistoric flints which have been eroding from the edge of the Garafad Common Grazing, in Staffin Bay, for several years.
Experts are inviting local volunteers to join them on a dig which could identify whether a sub-circular structure was a prehistoric house as part of enhancements to the roofless Staffin Ecomuseum. Geophysical surveys, digging, spoil sieving and workshops will take place for visitors and schools.
“Excavations at Staffin Bay have huge potential, not only for the investigation of an important prehistoric occupation site, but also to enhance local education, engagement with heritage and development of the ecomuseum,” believes Dan Lee, of the university.
“We are excited about the prospect of building a long-term partnership with the Staffin Community Trust and exploring the archaeology of the area for the benefit of the community.”
What do you think? Leave a comment below.
Three museums to see prehistoric finds in
The Bowes Museum, Durham
Learn about prehistoric people through a variety of spectacular objects including flint tools, metal swords, jewellery, examples of rock art and much more in the Prehistoric People exhibition. Until September 27 2015.
Grosvenor Museum, Chester
Current exhibition A Prehistoric Landscape: Archaeology of the Mid Cheshire Ridge explores the earliest human history of the Sandstone Mid Cheshire Ridge up to the Roman invasion in AD43. Until October 25 2015.
The Hunterian Museum and Art Gallery, Glasgow
Cradle of Scotland combines original artefacts found by the University of Glasgow’s Strathearn Environs and Royal Forteviot project with replicas and visualisations, creating a stunning exhibition that explores the archaeological history of Scotland. Until January 3 2016.
