Dating back from the Iron Age, it's estimated at least 700 Brochs once existed across Scotland, now existing mostly as ruins, some have survived and still stand to this day. The round tower structures were built as double-walled dry-stone, the outer walls being 3m thick and keeping out most of the harsh Scottish weather, with an internal diameter of 5-15m, and had spiral staircases between the outer walls connecting the galleries, with open space between. Some had wells or natural springs in their centre, or hearths that would have drawn hot air up and heated the upper floors. Believed to be built for the purposes of defence, refuge, and status, they are often found at key strategic locations. They can be found all over Scotland, but are predominately found in the northeast, with the highest concentrations found in Sutherland and Caithness, and the Northern Isles on Orkney and Shetland. Many can also be found in the west on Skye and the Hebrides.

Wayscape last edited on 2022-08-08