A remarkable archaeological discovery has unfolded in the Scottish Highlands, shedding light on the ancient history of the region. While developing the Old Petty Championship Golf Course near Inverness, a team of archaeologists unearthed significant artifacts, including the remains of an Iron Age chariot and a 3,500-year-old Bronze Age cremation urn. These finds, along with other relics spanning millennia, provide valuable insights into Scotland’s prehistoric past.
Unearthing a Treasure Trove of History
The Old Petty Championship Golf Course, currently under construction, lies on land that is rich with historical significance. Excavations at the site have revealed a wealth of archaeological remains that span thousands of years, from the early Neolithic period through to the Middle Ages.
Among the most notable discoveries were flint tools, the remnants of at least 25 Neolithic wooden buildings, and a ceremonial prehistoric palisade circle that contained the remains of an Iron Age chariot wheel. This circle, along with the associated cremation pit, offers a rare glimpse into the ceremonial and funerary practices of ancient Scottish communities.
A Chariot Wheel and a Bronze Age Cremation Urn
The standout find at the site was the discovery of an Iron Age chariot wheel, likely placed in the cremation pit as part of a ritual. Although similar chariot remains have been found in England, this find is groundbreaking for the Scottish Highlands, where such discoveries are extremely rare. In fact, this is believed to be the first chariot wheel found in the region, and one of only five discovered in the entirety of Scotland.
The cremation urn, dating back to the Bronze Age, is another extraordinary artifact that helps paint a picture of ancient burial practices. These findings, combined with other ancient artifacts, highlight the site’s importance as a ceremonial and funerary location used by Scotland’s earliest inhabitants.
Archaeological Significance and Future Plans
The excavation at the golf course site was led by Avon Archaeology Highland (AAH), with principal archaeologist Andy Young overseeing the discoveries. Young expressed his excitement over the exceptional nature of the finds, particularly the prehistoric ceremonial circle and the chariot wheel.
“The discoveries we’ve made, particularly relating to early Neolithic settlement and later prehistoric ceremonial/funerary activity, are properly exceptional,” Young told The Independent. He emphasized the rarity of these finds in the Scottish Highlands, noting that the chariot wheel was likely part of a ceremonial practice that is not commonly found in the region.
In addition to the chariot wheel and cremation urn, archaeologists discovered evidence of medieval ditches and field systems at the site, suggesting that the land had been used for agricultural purposes during the Middle Ages.
Preserving History for the Future
Given the historical importance of the site, the developers of the golf course have taken steps to preserve the artifacts and ensure that the area remains protected. The ceremonial circle containing the chariot wheel was carefully reburyed to safeguard its integrity.
Stuart McColm, vice president of the golf development, expressed his pride in the preservation efforts. “It’s humbling to think that our new championship course, Old Petty, will rest on such historically rich ground,” McColm said. “We’re proud to preserve this heritage while creating a world-class golf experience.”
Radiocarbon Dating and Further Excavations
As part of the ongoing archaeological efforts, experts plan to radiocarbon date the artifacts later this year to gain a more precise understanding of their age and historical context. This will further enrich our knowledge of the prehistoric communities that once inhabited the Scottish Highlands and their cultural practices.
