Neolithic crannogs: rethinking settlement, monumentality and deposition in the Outer Hebrides and beyond

This paper outlines work on a group of newly-identified Neolithic crannogs in the Outer Hebrides. Methods employed included underwater/aerial photogrammetry, geophysics, diver surveys and terrestrial excavation. Our results demonstrate conclusively, for the first time, that artificial islets were a widespread feature of the Neolithic in this region; they appear to have been special purpose locations which saw significant deposition of material culture into the water. Our findings challenge current conceptualisations of Neolithic settlement, monumentality and depositional practice more widely. They also suggest the possibility that other ‘undated’ crannogs across Scotland and Ireland could potentially have Neolithic origins as well