Archaeological Evaluation

Date 9 March 2015 - 10 March 2015

Event ID 1013528

Category Recording

Type Archaeological Evaluation

Permalink http://canmore.org.uk/event/1013528

NT 08580 43009 A geophysical survey and evaluation excavation were carried out, 9–10 March 2015, to assess archaeological potential relating to Melbourne Cursus, W of Melbourne Crossroads. Two areas were targeted with geophysical survey, the first to the N of the A721 and the second to the S of the A702. A single trench was also excavated over the bank and ditch on the ENE side of the cursus, close to the southern terminal. The results from the c5ha gradiometer survey were inconclusive, and it can be suggested that the instruments were affected by magnetic noise caused by the local geology

and subsequently were unable to clearly identify potential archaeological remains.

In the excavation trench, evidence of the structure of the monument was revealed. The structural remains comprised a low broad bank with a turf core. A ditch extended along the exterior of the cursus bank. A shallow pit lay outside of the ditch. No artefacts were retrieved during the excavations, but soil samples that may produce datable organics and samples for soil micromorphological analysis were collected.

Archive: NRHE

Funder: RCAHMS

Jamie Humble and Graeme Cavers – AOC Archaeology Group

(Source: DES, Volume 17)