Introduction

This evening, I am posting information on Carloway Broch on the Isle of Lewis which forms part of Scotland’s Outer Hebrides.

Information on Carloway Broch

Summary information as follows:

• An example of a distinctive form of settlement. Such is unique to modern day Scotland which probably dates from around the early first millennium, possibly a little earlier.
• Brochs are found on Orkney, Shetland, the Western Isles (including Lewis) and the Highland region of the Scottish mainland.
• Such structures comprise dry stone towers extending to a height of about 33 feet and about 82 feet in diameter. Walls are thick at the base tapering towards the top. As illustrated in image below, the walls usually feature a double skin which allows stairs and walls between the walls. This feature also provides insulation benefits.
• It is probable that inside the broch were wooden floors at different levels.
• There may have been a central fireplace but the roof would have been enclosed (with thatch).
• The Carloway broch, like many others, is situated close to the sea thus suggesting marine activities (and fishing) were important. Pastoral farming was also probably undertaken.
• A broch would likely be the home of a high status and/or powerful personage together with extended family and animals.
• Only about one third of the structure remains. After abandonment the structure was probably robbed for it’s building stone.
• Carloway Broch is open to the public and is just a short drive from Callanish Stones.

Here is a video clip of the broch and local landscape.

Here is an image of the only intact broch (minus roof). This is Mousa Broch in the Shetland Isles.

More information for the visitor

The publication Visitors’ Guide to Scotland includes sections on Isle of Lewis, Scottish brochs and much more. ISBN is 978-1-9161332-0-4. This is also available via Kindle.