Posted on 09/02/2006 10:31:27 AM PDT by SunkenCiv
When it comes to tombs, the early Neolithic period is characterised by stalled cairns structures, such as Unstan in Stenness, which are divided into cells, or stalls, by large upright stones. Towards the end of the period, these were superseded by Maeshowe-type structures circular with side chambers. The Brodgar building appears to show characteristics of both. It was a large oval structure but was subdivided into radial chambers similar to those found inside the Crantit cairn in 1998. But the surprises didn't stop there. Outside, the structure appears to have been surrounded by a large stone wall, perhaps reflecting the Barnhouse settlement's Structure Eight - a massive hall-like structure, seven metres square and surrounded by an enclosing circular wall.
(Excerpt) Read more at orkneyjar.com ...
The north-eastern section of the structure, with the external, circular wall face visible. The later drain is visible at the end of the row of stones on the earth.
Please FREEPMAIL me if you want on or off the
"Gods, Graves, Glyphs" PING list or GGG weekly digest
-- Archaeology/Anthropology/Ancient Cultures/Artifacts/Antiquities, etc.
Gods, Graves, Glyphs (alpha order)
A tomb indeed. Looks like the poor guy was crossing off the days.
:')
The designs on the Orkney stones are more primitive, but they are reminiscent of Greek geometric pottery. The Attic pyxis below is dated to 750-735 BC.
Disclaimer: Opinions posted on Free Republic are those of the individual posters and do not necessarily represent the opinion of Free Republic or its management. All materials posted herein are protected by copyright law and the exemption for fair use of copyrighted works.