Description

The monument comprises a coastal cave containing a decorated boulder, cross-base, stone basin, incised carving and the remains of structures. All probably date to the medieval period (AD 600 - 1200). The cave measures about 40m in length, with an average width of about 8m. It has a maximum height of about 12m. It is a natural cave on the Achinhoan headland, at about 10m above sea level. 

The stone basin is set into the floor within the centre of the cave. It measures about 0.64m by 0.51m internally, with a depth of about 0.13m. A little to the east of the basin is a boulder with circular incised decoration comprising a T-fret boulder enclosing a six-petalled marigold. This is comparable to decoration known from Early Christian stones and metalwork elsewhere. The damaged remains of a further incised carving have been recorded on the rock face at the rear of the cave. Next to the stone basin is a sandstone slab with a rectangular slot, probably the remains of a cross base. The footings of the southwest corner of a small rectangular building are visible in the centre of the cave and the remains of further structures were found during small-scale excavations in the 1920s. 

The scheduled area is rectangular. 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. It does not include the ground surface above the cave.

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 natural cave occupied in the medieval period. It has the potential to add to our understanding of Early Christian practices in Scotland and the function, use and development of ecclesiastical cave sites. The cave contains features such as a stone basin, probable cross base and decorated boulder, as well as the remains of structures. There is significant potential for the survival of buried archaeological deposits within the site particularly in areas which have not been subject to excavation. The monument can significantly add to our understanding of ecclesiastical practice, stone sculpture and society during the medieval period. It is part of a wider pattern of ecclesiastical use of coastal caves in Scotland. As such it can enhance our understanding of Early Christianity in Scotland. 

Source: Historic Environment Scotland

Sources

Bibliography
No Bibliography entries for this designation

trove.scot

https://www.trove.scot/place/38699/
https://www.trove.scot/place/319859/

HER/SMR Reference

https://www.wosas.net/wosas_site.php?id=3291

Source: Historic Environment Scotland