Description

The monument comprises the remains of a chambered cairn, a form of burial monument dating to the Neolithic (around 4000BC - 2500BC). It is visible as a vegetation covered stony mound, measuring about 36m from northeast to southwest by about 22m and standing to a maximum height of 1.8m. The monument is situated on a hillslope overlooking the Cromarty Firth, at about 70m above sea level. 

The remains of a rectangular chamber and entrance passage survive on the north of the cairn. Three large stone slabs define a chamber measuring at least 3.7m from northeast to southwest by about 1.7m. A large lintel stone and vertical slab, forming part of the entrance passageway, are visible about three metres northeast of the chamber.

The scheduled area is rectangular, measuring 55m from northeast to southwest by 38m. It includes the remains described above and an area around within which evidence relating to the monument's construction, use and abandonment is expected to survive, as shown in red on the accompanying map. The scheduled area runs up to but does not include the post and wire fence on the east and excludes the above ground elements of the post and wire fence on the north, west and south to allow for its maintenance.

Source: Historic Environment Scotland

Statement of Scheduling

The monument is of national importance as it makes a significant contribution to our understanding or appreciation of the past as a well-preserved chambered cairn. It adds to our understanding of design and construction of burial monuments, the nature of burial and ritual practices and their significance in Neolithic society. It is an impressive monument which retains its field characteristics and can be compared with other chambered cairns that survive in the vicinity.As such it can enhance our understanding of Neolithic society and economy, as well as the nature of belief systems, burial and ceremonial practices. It would have been an important component of the wider prehistoric landscape of settlement, agriculture and ritual and would have been a prominent part of the prehistoric landscape. Chambered cairns are one of our main sources of information for the Neolithic in Scotland and so are an important element in our understanding of the nature of Scotland's prehistoric society and landscape. 

Source: Historic Environment Scotland

Sources

Bibliography
No Bibliography entries for this designation

Canmore

https://canmore.org.uk/site/13686/

HER/SMR Reference

MHG8099

Source: Historic Environment Scotland