Description

The monument comprises a low grass-covered mound, probably the remains of a prehistoric burial cairn, situated on a NW-facing hill terrace.

The mound measures approximately 8m NW-SE by 6m NE-SW and stands to a height of c.0.5m, with gently sloping sides. Some stones, both earthfast and loose slabs, occur over the surface of the mound. At the highest point (N end) of the mound, a series of small upright slabs defines a roughly circular area some 3m in diameter. Several upright slabs protrude from the cairn but form no discernible pattern. The loose slabs on the surface may have been disturbed by rabbit burrowing.

The area to be scheduled is a circle measuring 17m in diameter centred on the centre of the mound to include the mound and an area around it in which evidence for the construction, primary use and any secondary uses of the monument may be expected to survive, as marked in red on the accompanying map extract.

Source: Historic Environment Scotland

Statement of Scheduling

The monument is of national importance as the remains of a prehistoric burial cairn. Although affected by rabbit burrowing, it retains considerable potential to provide important evidence about prehistoric burial practices. Its importance is enhanced because it is part of an apparently intact archaeological landscape on Faraclett Head.

Source: Historic Environment Scotland

Sources

Bibliography

RCAHMS records the monument as HY 43 SW 27.

Reference:

RCAHMS (1982) The Royal Commission on the Ancient and Historical Monuments of Scotland. The archaeological sites and monuments of Rousay, Egilsay and Wyre, Orkney Islands Area, The archaeological sites and monuments of Scotland series no 16, Edinburgh, 17, No. 20.

Source: Historic Environment Scotland