Archaeology Notes

Event ID 676463

Category Descriptive Accounts

Type Archaeology Notes

Permalink http://canmore.org.uk/event/676463

NN02SW 1 02954 24230.

(NN 0294 2423) Dun (NR) Caisteal Suidhe Cheannaidh (NAT)

OS 1:10,000 map, (1975)

On the highest part of the east end of a rocky ridge, are the remains of one of the best preserved duns in Lorn. It is protected by steep slopes on all sides except the west where there is a gentle approach along the crest of the ridge. The dun is almost circular on plan, measuring 11.9 by 13.1 metres within a wall up to 4.9 metres thick. The outer face, which consists of large stones survives to a maximum height of over 2 metres on the west whilst the inner face still stands to an average height of 2 metres in about nine courses, but the base of the wall on both sides is now largely obscured by fallen debris. It is recorded that, before being used as a quarry for field walls, it stood 6 metres high. The entrance is on the NE side, the outer corners being formed of large blocks. The passage is checked for a door at a point 1.7 metres from the outside from where it widens to 2.1 metres. The inner portion of the passage is 2.4 metres long and has slightly curved sides. During excavation in 1890 several hearths were discovered as well as bones of horse and deer.

RCAHMS 1975; D Christison 1891.

As described. Name not confirmed.

Surveyed at 1:10 000 scale.

Visited by OS (R D) 29 October 1969.