Wetland Archaeology in Galloway: Investigating the loch settlements of Southwest Scotland
The Scottish Wetlands Archaeology Programme (SWAP) aims to integrate the rich wetland archaeological record of Scotland with mainstream archaeological studies in order to make the most of this spectacular archaeological resource.
Being particularly rich in freshwater archaeological remains, Southwest Scotland has proven to be the ideal area to advance this programme. One particularly exciting area is in and around Cults Loch, near Castle Kennedy, Stranraer. As the wetland sites at Cults Loch lie at the very centre of a densely settled prehistoric landscape, this area offers an exciting opportunity to integrate the wealth of evidence expected from wetland sites with the evidence more common to dryland sites. This will allow archaeologists to build up a much more vivid picture of life in prehistoric Southwest Scotland than has been possible before.
AOC Archaeology Group will be undertaking excavations and survey at Cults Loch between Wednesday 3rd and Friday 12th September 2008. The principal focus in these initial stages is to assess and characterise the dryland promontory site, which may date to the mid-first millennium BC.
We are very keen to maximise public involvement in this exciting project. This will take a variety of forms:
- Public lectures
- Guided tours
- Open Day
- Actual involvement in the excavations
- A daily web-diary
AOC Project Managers: Dr Anne Crone & Dr Graeme Cavers
Research Sponsor: Historic Scotland
