Am Bratach No. 193
Robin Noble, well known as a conservationist, but who also has had a considerable involvement with archaeology in the past, has been appointed by Historic Assynt to work for next year investigating options for the future of the Clachtoll Broch. A Lottery grant has allowed work on a feasibility study to proceed. Working with Comunn Eachdraidh Asainte and with the Assynt Crofters Trust (landlords of the site), the not-for profit organisation with a remit allowing it to promote the preservation of the former Clan MacLeod stronghold’s built heritage of prehistoric and historic buildings, is now looking to preserve the broch, considered an important coastal monument. The Assynt landscape contains a considerable number of archaeological monuments dating from at least as far back as 3,000 BC up until the time of the Clearances, many of which are little visited and perhaps less understood. By far the most imposing of the prehistoric monuments is the Iron Age Clachtoll Broch, whose stonework is visibly suffering from the effects of serious storms, repeated clambering and an increasing amount of casual (and illegal) digging. The aim of the feasibility study is to examine all the options for the future of this important building, which must have been the principal centre of power in Assynt some time after 500 BC. Clachtoll has external features which seem to link it with Orkney, and excavation might significantly advance understanding of these remarkable, drystone structures. Similar projects on Shetland and Orkney have provided benefits to the local economy and the Assynt study will look carefully at ways of ensuring the maximum benefits to the poeple of Assynt. Anyone has any interest in, or
queries about, this project, is invited to contact Robin Noble
on 01571 833 246. |