Jarlshof: Scotland's Premier Prehistoric and Norse Settlement
Jarlshof represents one of Scotland's most remarkable archaeological sites, showcasing an extraordinary timeline of human occupation spanning over 4,000 years. Located at the southern tip of the Shetland mainland, this prehistoric and Norse settlement complex provides an unparalleled window into the evolution of human habitation in Northern Scotland from the Bronze Age through the Medieval period.
Historical Overview and Discovery
Sumburgh Head from Jarlshof (Photo: Pstenzel71, Flickr CC BY-ND 2.0)
Initial Discovery and Excavation
The site's modern history began in the 1890s when severe storms eroded the coastline, revealing ancient structures beneath the soil. The name "Jarlshof" itself is relatively recent, coined by Sir Walter Scott in his novel "The Pirate" (1822), though the site was known locally as "Old House of Sumburgh." Systematic archaeological excavations commenced in 1925 under the direction of Alexander Curle, with subsequent major investigations carried out by John Hamilton between 1949 and 1952.
Archaeological Significance
The importance of Jarlshof lies in its exceptional preservation and the continuous sequence of occupation it represents. The site contains remains from the Late Bronze Age, Iron Age, Pictish period, Norse era, and the Medieval and Post-Medieval periods, making it an invaluable resource for understanding the cultural evolution of Shetland and broader Scottish history.
Chronological Development
Aisled Roundhouse and Broch (Photo: Otter, Wikicommons CC BY-SA 3.0)
Late Bronze Age Settlements
The earliest occupation at Jarlshof dates to approximately 2500 BCE. The Bronze Age settlement consists of oval houses with thick stone walls, containing evidence of bronze working and pottery production. These structures represent some of the best-preserved Bronze Age buildings in Scotland, with clear evidence of domestic activities including cooking, weaving, and tool manufacturing.
Iron Age Structures
During the Iron Age (around 800 BCE to 400 CE), the settlement evolved to include sophisticated wheelhouses – circular structures with interior radial compartments. These buildings demonstrate advanced architectural knowledge and social organization, with evidence suggesting a thriving community engaged in farming, fishing, and craft production.
Pictish Period
The Pictish period at Jarlshof (400-800 CE) is represented by cellular houses and workshops, showing continuity of occupation but with distinct architectural changes. Archaeological evidence from this period includes decorated stones and tools that indicate cultural connections with the broader Pictish world.
Norse Settlement Phase
The arrival of Norse settlers in the 9th century CE marked a significant transition at Jarlshof. The Vikings established their characteristic longhouses, introducing new building techniques and cultural practices. At least seven distinct phases of Norse building have been identified, demonstrating the evolution of Norse architecture and settlement patterns over several centuries.
Medieval and Post-Medieval Occupation
The final phase of occupation is represented by the "Old House of Sumburgh," a 16th-century laird's house, which was modified and occupied until the late 17th century. This structure overlies earlier Norse buildings and represents the last phase of continuous habitation at the site.
Architectural Features
Photo: Mustang Joe, CC0 1.0)
Bronze Age Houses
The Bronze Age dwellings at Jarlshof feature oval-shaped structures with thick stone walls and central hearths. These houses show sophisticated construction techniques, including drainage systems and storage facilities, providing insight into domestic life during this period.
Iron Age Wheelhouses
The Iron Age wheelhouses represent a distinctive architectural form, with their complex internal arrangements of radial chambers around a central courtyard. These structures demonstrate advanced building techniques and social organization within the community.
Norse Longhouses
The Norse settlement features several well-preserved longhouses, characterized by their rectangular form and central hearths. These buildings show evidence of multiple phases of construction and modification, reflecting changes in Norse building traditions over time.
Medieval Manor House
The 16th-century laird's house represents the final phase of construction at Jarlshof. This structure, though now ruined, provides valuable information about Medieval Scottish architecture and social hierarchy.
Cultural Significance
Photo: Duncan, Flickr CC BY-NC 2.0
Archaeological Evidence of Daily Life
The material culture recovered from Jarlshof provides extensive evidence of daily life throughout its occupation. Artifacts include pottery, tools, jewelry, and evidence of metalworking, textile production, and food preparation, offering insights into the changing lifestyles and technologies of its inhabitants.
Trade and Economic Activities
Archaeological evidence suggests extensive trade networks throughout the site's history. Findings indicate connections with continental Europe during the Bronze and Iron Ages, while Norse-period artifacts demonstrate links with Scandinavia and the broader North Atlantic world.
Conservation and Tourism
Prehistoric Site at Jarlshof (Photo: Bob Embleton CC BY-SA 2.0)
Current State and Management
Historic Environment Scotland manages Jarlshof, implementing conservation measures to protect the site from coastal erosion and weather damage. Ongoing research continues to reveal new information about the site's history and development.
Visitor Experience and Interpretation
The site features comprehensive interpretative displays and guided tours, allowing visitors to understand the complex chronology and significance of the various settlement phases. Modern protective structures help preserve the archaeological remains while facilitating public access.
Jarlshof stands as a testament to the rich and complex history of human settlement in Scotland's northern reaches. Its exceptional preservation and continuous occupation sequence make it an invaluable resource for understanding the cultural and social development of Shetland from prehistoric times through the Medieval period.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- When was Jarlshof first discovered?
The site was first exposed by coastal erosion in the 1890s, with formal excavations beginning in 1925.
- How long was Jarlshof occupied?
The site shows evidence of continuous human occupation spanning over 4,000 years, from approximately 2500 BCE to the late 17th century CE.
- What makes Jarlshof unique among archaeological sites?
Its exceptional preservation and continuous occupation sequence spanning multiple cultural periods make it one of the most comprehensive archaeological sites in Scotland.
- What types of structures can be seen at Jarlshof?
Visitors can see Bronze Age houses, Iron Age wheelhouses, Pictish buildings, Norse longhouses, and a Medieval manor house.
- How did the site get its name?
The name "Jarlshof" was coined by Sir Walter Scott in his 1822 novel "The Pirate," though the site was historically known as the "Old House of Sumburgh."
References
Hamilton, J.R.C. (1956) "Excavations at Jarlshof, Shetland." Ministry of Works Archaeological Reports No. 1
Fojut, N. (1998) "A Guide to Prehistoric and Viking Shetland"
Turner, V. (2012) "Ancient Shetland"
Graham-Campbell, J. & Batey, C.E. (1998) "Vikings in Scotland: An Archaeological Survey"
Historic Environment Scotland (2020) "Jarlshof Prehistoric and Norse Settlement: Site Guide"
"Jarlshof 20080821 - byre entrance for viking settlement" by Otter is licensed under CC BY-SA 3.0.
"Jarlshof" by duncan is licensed under CC BY-NC 2.0.
