Description

The monument comprises an earthen fortification, probably a temporary bastioned artillery platform, which is situated among the salt marshes at the SE end of Loch Gruinart. The site is traditionally associated with the battle of Traigh Ghruineard, fought between the MacLeans and the MacDonalds in 1598.

It is a low scarped platform which stands about 1.25m above the base of a broad encircling ditch and covers an area about 16m square. The angles are extruded to form roughly circular projections some 4m in diameter; the S pair of bastions are solid, while those at the NW and NE angles have hollow, open-ended, interiors. The ditch varies between 8m and 10m in maximum width, and a later turf dyke traverses the SE corner of the site.

The area to be scheduled measures 70m from N to S by 70m transversely, to include the fortification and an area around in which associated remains may survive, as marked in red on the attached map.

Source: Historic Environment Scotland

Statement of Scheduling

The monument is of national importance because it represents the vulnerable, yet well-preserved, remains of a rare form of late medieval temporary fortification. As such it has the potential to provide information about contemporary military practice and associated activities.

Source: Historic Environment Scotland

Sources

Bibliography

RCAHMS records the monument as NR 26 NE 5.

Source: Historic Environment Scotland