Excavation

Date 2 July 2007 - 6 July 2007

Event ID 556455

Category Recording

Type Excavation

Permalink http://canmore.org.uk/event/556455

NS 088 645 An archaeological excavation was undertaken between 2-6 July 2007 to establish the heights of two vault crowns and several wall heads prior to the laying of a new floor and associated drainage in the room immediately to the S of the Great Hall of the Gatehouse of Rothesay Castle. These excavations revealed several phases of building activity, reduction and repair.

Phase 1 c1200 to 1230 Circular wall of enceinte in reddish pink sandstone constructed with an arched entry to the N.

Phase 2 c1266 to 1296 Addition of four circular towers and a gatehouse of at least two floors with a portcullis to the N.

Phase 3 c1488 to 1542 Addition of a much larger gatehouse to the N, incorporating much of the Phase 1 and 2 work.

Phase 4 c1659 to 1685 Demolition and burning by Cromwellian troops and the forces of the Earl of Argyll.

Phase 5 c1816 to 1818 Ruins excavated and gatehouse vault rebuilt by the 2nd Marquess of Bute.

Phase 6 1872 to 1879 Consolidation of existing tusked masonry and structure including removal of trees and vegetation by the 3rd Marquess of Bute.

Phase 7 c1900 3rd Marquess of Bute 'reconstructs' the Great Hall.

A further vault crown was left unexcavated as it lay below the recommended 200mm depth of excavation below the existing floor level. Additionally, a section of wall head between the NW Tower and the Gatehouse was drawn, numbered and recorded photographically prior to reinstatement and re-pointing works.

P Fox 2007

Sponsor: Historic Scotland

Kirkdale Archaeology