The Knowe of Rowiegar, Rousay, Orkney

A recent study of the Neolithic chambered cairn at Knowe of Rowiegar, Rousay, Orkney, reveals significant insights into its use and the fate of its human remains. The research suggests that disarticulated bones were deposited in the site around 3400 to 2900 cal BC, coinciding with periods of climate deterioration. The assemblage showed a notable preponderance of crania and mandibles, indicating at least 28 heads, along with evidence of violent trauma on seven skulls and high levels of childhood dietary deficiency. The study also proposes that the site was severely damaged during the construction of an adjacent Iron Age souterrain. Using osteological analysis, AMS dating, and archival sources, researchers reconstructed the site's history, providing a detailed timeline and context for its use.

Hutchison, M., Curtis, N., & Kidd, R. (2016). The Knowe of Rowiegar, Rousay, Orkney. Proceedings of the Society of Antiquaries of Scotland, 145, 41–89. https://doi.org/10.9750/psas.145.41.89