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Cairnpapple Hill
55.9281° N, -3.6225° E
About
Cairnpapple Hill is a hill with a dominating position in central lowland Scotland with views from coast to coast. It was used and re-used as a major ritual site for around 4000 years, and in its day would have been comparable to better known sites like the Standing Stones of Stenness. The summit lies 312 m above sea level, and is about 2 miles (3 km) north of Bathgate. In the 19th century the site was completely concealed by trees, then in 1947–1948 excavations by Stuart Piggott found a series of ritual monuments from successive prehistoric periods. In 1998, Gordon Barclay re-interpreted the site for Historic Scotland. It is designated a scheduled ancient monument.
Historical Timeline
Journey through time and discover key events in this site's history
Silver discovered at Hilderston
1606
Stuart Piggott excavations
1947048
Gordon Barclay reinterpretation
1998
Beaker-style burial and wooden objects
c. 2000 BC
Henge constructed
c. 3000 BC
Neolithic rituals begin
c. 3500 BC
Archaeological Features
Unique architectural and cultural elements found at this historical site
Burial and Funerary Structures
Industrial and Craft Structures
Religious and Ritual Structures
Environmental and Natural Features
Astronomical and Timekeeping Structures
Food Production and Processing Features
Frequently Asked Questions
Plan Your Visit
Tours, travel arrangements, and practical information
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