Archaeology InSites

A Special Place

High Pasture Cave was likely a known waypoint for many years before evidence was left at the cave which would attest to its occupation. It was probably used as a shelter or stopping place by hunter gatherers, and among the artefacts which attest to its early occupation are a leaf shaped arrowhead, a microlith and a polished stone axe. People were clearly present here in the Mesolithic and Neolithic, although why and for how long, we cannot say.

In the early Bronze Age, a small recumbent standing stone and a kerb were installed close to the site. Ard marks, evidence of ancient ploughing, were found below the stone setting. Pits and post holes close to the standing stone indicate the presence of a shelter, which may be the earliest building to be constructed on the site. Within the cave, sherds from 10 vessels were found at the darkened northern end of Bone Passage. Bone Passage remained the focus of activity within the cave until its 'closure' at around 100BC.

The majority of activity on the site dates to the late Bronze Age and early Iron Age. Access into the cave began to be modified and elaborated at this time. The precinct in front of the cave saw the construction of several hearths and working surfaces. Paved walkways were installed and three successive stairwells provided access into the cave. Within the cave, there is evidence of the deliberate and patterned placing of objects, or 'structured deposition', dating to the 9th century BC. These votive deposits were at their most concentrated at the point where the paved walkway meets the interior of the cave.

Later phases within the cave have been dated to the 4th-2nd centuries BC, and this includes domestic refuse and lots of burnt material. The number and variety of small finds deposited increased at this time and appear to be more widespread within the cave. A large faunal assemblage points to the use of the site for feasting, and animal and plant remains were also deposited as offerings. Metalworking was also clearly important here, and slag and crucibles are attested among the finds from the site. The importance of fire at the site manifested itself as a massive burnt mound which accumulated at the entrance to the cave. Evidence for feasting activities in front of the cave make it clear that this was an important meeting place.

The site was ritually closed around 100 calBC. It was backfilled with midden and human and animal remains were deposited on top of the stairwell. Clearly this was no ordinary occupation site. Access to the cave appears to have become more defined and controlled. A processional entrance appears to have lead up to the site. Successive walls were erected to delineate and enclose the precinct. Could this be a type of shrine, a special passage leading into the earth which was set apart from normal life? Perhaps a mysterious gateway into another world? We may never be certain, but it is truly a fascinating window into prehistoric life on Skye. Publication of the investigations is expected in Summer 2017. Dr Kirsty Owen, with invaluable additions by Dr Lisa Brown, Archaeology and World Heritage Team