Pittentian Farm, Crief
FUNDERS & PARTNERS: Scottish and Southern Energy, Murphy Pipelines, IKM Solutions, Scottish Woodlands, Northlight Heritage
LOCATION: East Wemyss, Fife
While monitoring topsoil stripping for the Beauly to Denny Power Line at Pittentian, we uncovered the remains of a large, complex timber circle. Post-excavation analysis is underway, but based on comparable examples this was a ceremonial monument dating to the late Neolithic or early Bronze Age (c 3000-2000 BC). At its centre stood a square structure built of four large, upright timbers, surrounded by two concentric rings of posts. There were traces of several other post-built structures, possibly dwellings, along with charcoal, pottery, burnt bone and chipped stone artefacts. Following the excavation, we worked with SSE and the local community to create a physical re-imagining of the monument. It was recently unveiled by the Earl and Countess of Strathearn in the grounds of Strathearn Community Campus. Pupils and teachers at Crieff High School were involved in the design, making 3D digital models based upon the archaeological remains. Plans are already afoot for the school drama club to use it as a stage for a performance of Macbeth.