Description

The monument consists of a small island in Loch Altabrug on which are situated the remains of a dun (a fortified dwelling of Iron Age date) and other structures, together with the causeway which links the island to the N shore of the loch. The dun consists of an oval enclosure 10m E-W by 9m N-S within thick drystone walls varying from 3m to 4m wide. The entrance was from the NNE, and on this side of the island, outside the dun, are traces of the foundations of other structures.

A well-built boulder causeway approximately 10m long

links the N end of the island to the shore. The area to be scheduled is irregular, defined by the shore of the island and an area on each side of, and including, the causeway. It has maximum dimensions N-S of 60m and E-W of 35m.

Source: Historic Environment Scotland

Statement of Scheduling

The monument is of national importance as a fine example of a later prehistoric defensive settlement. Its importance is enhanced by its situation in a largely water-logged location, which will preserve much archaeological evidence which would normally have decayed, and which would here be accessible to excavation. As a field monument, and by excavation, it has the potential to contribute significantly to our knowledge of later prehistoric society in the Western Isles.

Source: Historic Environment Scotland

Sources

Bibliography

RCAHMS records the monument as NF 73 SW 5.

Source: Historic Environment Scotland