Orkney August 2015: Part the first

Hooray, back in Orkney for just over a week. After a not-very auspicious start (delayed flight meant getting here three hours later than planned), we got into the swing of things today - undaunted by the weather.

First off was a visit to the Broch of Gurness, an Iron Age construction dating from around 500BC. Originally it probably had a defensive function but that metamorphed into communal living. It was occupied by successive generations up until 500AD. The central broch (a double walled tower) is seen here surrounded by other houses.

The buildings were all constructed of stone slabs but would have had a turf roof. The interiors probably had various wooden 'fitments; and would not have been as sparse as they look now. 

Inside of the central broch, showing the hearth and some 'cupboards'.

 

Lapwing - just one of many.

Lapwing with Grey Lag Goose

Two young Artic Terns. They were still being fed by adults who were quite aggressive in defending their young, as evidenced by their dive bombing and general screeching.

To St Magnus's Cathedral in Kirkwall. A cold place which would come bottom of my list of welcoming cathedrals - but these flowers were nice.

Looking up the aisle of St Magnus's.

Just one of the Stones of Stenness.

And here are the rest of them. Neolithic so they are about 5000 years old. They are within the Ness of Brogdar area and we'll be seeing more of this in the coming days. For the moment, just hang on to the thought that this is the heart of Neolithic Orkney, whereas the Broch of Gurness and its neighbouring structures can be regarded as the heart of Iron Age Orkney.

Nearby was the village of Barnhouse. Neolithic and comprising of 4 distinct circular houses, with the same proportions but different dimensions. A great evening to be there - sunny, still and virtually deserted.

And with the sun setting in the west, we retire to our abode.