November 20 2023

The mysteries of Iron Age broch construction are to be brought to the present day with an experimental archaeology project to recreate a drystone tower in Caithness, typical of the type common to the northern Caledonian tribes of 2,000 years ago.

The Caithness Broch Project has identified a site in Caithness on land north of Latheron for the replica broch, the first to be built in two millennia, which will stand as a tourist draw and an archaeological and educational research centre.

The broch has been designed by Caithness Broch Project's Iain Maclean with historical reconstruction artist Bob Marshall who have together developed a 3d model representing the completed structure.

Acknowledging that many of the details have been lost to time, particularly the appearance of upper levels which have only rarely survived, the work will explore the common features of broch architecture as well as what sets them apart. Key details include distinctive hollow wall construction, the key to attaining their characteristic height, as well as impenetrable 5m thick defensive walls through which a single point of access is capped by a triangular lintel.

A consultation has been launched by the charity for the public to share their views. 

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