Discovering The Archaeology of the Western Isles

Understanding and accessing the archaeology of the Western Isles is set to increase thanks to an interpretative project set up by Comhairle nan Eilean Siar.

A wide range of interpretative material will be produced through the project. One priority will be the development of a web-site ‘Archaeology Hebrides’ which will provide information on the Western Isles’ archaeological heritage in a lively format. This will also link to on-line access to the Sites and Monuments Record, a comprehensive record of everything that is known about the thousands of sites and find-spots throughout the Islands, which is maintained by the Archaeology Service of Comhairle nan Eilean Siar.

Cllr Archie Campbell, Chairman of Comhairle nan Eilean Siar’s Sustainable Development Committee, said:
“The Western Isles are rich in archaeological sites. Some of them, like the standing stones at Calanais, are becoming world famous. Many others lie like undiscovered secrets around the landscape of the Islands. They are increasingly being recognised as a resource of great importance both for visitors and local people. But too often these wonderful sites are not visited and remain unappreciated, because there has been a lack of readily accessible information, and because they are not always easy to find. Comhairle nan Eilean Siar has therefore initiated an Archaeological Interpretation Project, and has obtained funding from the Highlands and Islands Special Transitional Programme to carry out its ambitious three-year programme.”

The project will also feature the provision of signposting and interpretative boards on-site at a number of key places from Allt Chrisal in Barra to Dun Eisdean near the Butt of Lewis, which will greatly enhance the visitors’ experience of site-going. Finally, the project will produce a series of colourful leaflets and area guide books to complete its suite of interpretative materials. A project officer has been appointed to oversee the programme. Carol Knott can be contacted at 01851 860679, e-mail c.knott@cne-siar.gov.uk.

The £400k Hebrides Archaeological Interpretative Programme is funded by Comhairle nan Eilean Siar and European structural funds from the Highlands and Islands Special Transitional Programme. It will run until March 2008.

Ends

Nigel Scott
Communications Officer
Comhairle nan Eilean Siar

Tel: 01851 709389 (Work)
Tel: 07884 236103 (Mobile)
email: nscott@cne-siar.gov.uk