Construction work at the site of the new HMP Highland in Inverness has led to the discovery of a prehistoric settlement believed to be nearly 3,000 years old. Archaeologists conducting excavations in advance of the construction uncovered the remains of 16 roundhouses, revealing a settlement that dates back to the Iron and Bronze Ages.
The site, situated in an area already known for its archaeological significance, offers a valuable glimpse into the lives of early inhabitants of the Scottish Highlands. The roundhouses, some of which appear to have been fortified with protective fencing, were substantial structures supported by large timber posts. The discovery of various artefacts, including metal objects, pottery, and worked flint, suggests that the settlement was a thriving community with skilled artisans and tradespeople.
Insights into Prehistoric Life
The excavation has yielded a rich array of artefacts, providing important insights into the technological capabilities and daily lives of the prehistoric community. Among the items discovered were clay moulds and copper-alloy materials, which experts believe were likely used in the production of metal tools and weapons, including swords. The presence of stone whetstones and querns indicates that the community engaged in tool-making and grain processing, key activities for their survival.
According to the archaeological team, the roundhouses discovered highlight the resourcefulness and skills of the people who inhabited the area thousands of years ago. The metalworking tools and materials found at the site suggest a community with advanced craftsmanship, capable of producing high-quality tools and weapons. Additionally, the discovery of pottery fragments and worked flint further underscores the community’s sophisticated material culture.
The roundhouses, with visible timber post holes, suggest that these ancient dwellings were built to withstand the harsh conditions of the Scottish Highlands. The durability of these structures reflects the adaptability and ingenuity of the settlement’s inhabitants.
A Collaborative Effort
The excavation was carried out in conjunction with the early stages of the HMP Highland development, a project managed by the Scottish Prison Service (SPS). The SPS worked closely with the archaeological team and construction contractors to ensure that the site’s historical significance was preserved while allowing for the continued progress of the prison’s construction.
The discovery has been described as highlighting the deep historical importance of the area, both for the local community and for a broader understanding of Scotland’s ancient past. The archaeological finds not only provide a link to the region’s distant history but also emphasise the significance of Inverness as a site of human activity for thousands of years.
The site of HMP Highland lies within a broader archaeological landscape that has yielded several significant discoveries in the past. Previous excavations in the nearby areas of Culduthel, Slackbuie, and West Link Road have also uncovered nationally important finds, reinforcing the historical richness of the region.
As the construction of HMP Highland continues, the artefacts unearthed will be subjected to further analysis, offering more detailed insights into the prehistoric era of the Scottish Highlands. The intention is to make the findings accessible to the public, allowing both locals and visitors to engage with the region’s ancient heritage.
The project has been characterised as a successful collaboration, made possible by the support and coordination between the SPS and the archaeological team. The process of safeguarding the site’s archaeological value while enabling the prison’s construction has been emphasised as a key aspect of the project, ensuring that the historical discoveries are preserved and shared with the public.
The artefacts and structures uncovered at the HMP Highland site add to the broader understanding of Scotland’s prehistoric past, revealing that the Scottish Highlands were home to advanced and well-organised communities long before recorded history. These discoveries are expected to inform future archaeological research in the area and may lead to further excavations as the full extent of the settlement becomes clearer.
HMP Highland, intended to replace the over 120-year-old Inverness Prison, will have a capacity of 200 prisoners. The new facility is expected to be completed six years later than initially planned and at a cost significantly higher than first estimated. Despite the challenges associated with the project’s timeline and budget, the archaeological discoveries have provided an unexpected and invaluable contribution to the understanding of Scotland’s ancient history, enriching the cultural heritage of Inverness and the surrounding region.
The unearthing of the prehistoric settlement at the HMP Highland construction site serves as a reminder of the deep historical layers that lie beneath our feet. As Inverness continues to develop, the connection to its ancient past remains an integral part of its identity. The ongoing analysis of the artefacts and structures uncovered during this excavation will no doubt contribute to a deeper understanding of Scotland’s ancient history, ensuring that the legacy of these early inhabitants is preserved and appreciated by future generations.
