Hilton of Cadboll Geophysical Survey

Date 25 August 1997 - 12 September 1997

Event ID 1168184

Category Project

Type Project

Permalink http://canmore.org.uk/event/1168184

NH 8730 7689 Geophysical surveys were undertaken between the 25th August and 12th September 1997. Both the magnetometer and soil resistance surveys identified a concentration of anomalies to the east of the chapel enclosure situated on an area of relatively high ground. At the centre of this group lies S2 a possible building of similar size and orientation as the so-called chapel (S1). Around S2 both geophysical surveys identified several large irregular anomalies many of which appear to be archaeological in character.

A linear anomaly identified by the soil resistance survey (F5, Int.3) runs SSW from this group of anomalies terminating before the area of sand dunes next to the firth. At this point the soil resistance survey located two further large anomalies. F5 would seem to be a track, possibly with a gully running on either side of (F7, Int.2).

Although it cannot be assumed that these possible archaeological features are contemporary, the group of anomalies centred on S2 may well represent the remains of a building(s) sited on high ground at the base of the steep slope connected by a track to some kind of activity nearer the shore of the firth. Given that S2 shares the same proportions and orientation as S1, S2 may be the predecessor of the chapel or an associated building phase with S1. It would also appear to be likely that the complex of archaeological remains around S1 continue to the west of the fenced area and probably to the north, although this could not be tested due to extremely poor ground conditions.

The 'L' shaped earthwork at the eastern end of the site may well be associated with the above activity as an attempt to define or control access to the site.

J Garner-Lahire 1998.