Excavation

Date 19 July 2005 - 21 July 2005

Event ID 1034200

Category Recording

Type Excavation

Permalink http://canmore.org.uk/event/1034200

HY 3182 1277 Persistent problems with water ingress into the roof of the tomb (HY31SW 1) has been reported since the 19th century. Archaeological monitoring and evaluation were undertaken as part of a programme of works to investigate the cause of the problem and undertake remedial works. The cairn was re-opened in the 19th century, and a new stone roof added, resting on the original Neolithic masonry.

The initial phase of works in July 2005 comprised the excavation of three 1m2 trenches to locate and examine the concrete ‘raft’ believed to have been installed over the roof in the early 20th century.

The early 20th-century concrete roof installed at Maes Howe was clearly a major undertaking, and indicates that the monument has been having problems with damp for some considerable time. As well as the concrete roof and its bitumen coating, an estimated 30-40 tons of material was then put over this. The source of this huge amount of soil is unknown, with no obvious quarry pits in the immediate vicinity. Even the roof slates, carefully laid over the (rather ineffectual) perimeter drain, must have been robbed from a structure nearby.

D Murray 2005

Sponsor: Historic Scotland

Kirkdale Archaeology