Cuween Hill Chambered Cairn Orkney Islands, Scotland

Over 4,500 years ago, this cairn was constructed as a burial place by a group of neolithic farmers. It probably overlooked the farms of those who used it.

The entry to the tomb is down a narrow passage, partly open to the sky. Where the passage roof begins, a break in the stonework suggests that Cuween, like several other cairns, is built of concentric bands of stone. Inside, the main chamber, built on the bedrock, is spacious although dark and damp. It stands well over 2m high and was probably taller before the 19th-century explorers broke through the roof to gain entry. Four small side-cells lead off the main chamber.

Remains of at least eight human burials were found in the chamber along with many animal bones. Most of the human remains consisted of skulls. On the floor of the chamber lay the skulls of 24 small dogs.

The local tribe or family may have had the dog as their symbol or totem. (Other possible Neolithic totems include the sea eagles of Isbister tomb in South Ronaldsay.) Just how such tombs were used is not altogether clear. The small number of burials suggests the tomb may. have been cleared periodically with only the skulls of recent (or important) individuals left "on display."

When the cairn was opened in recent times, it was found to have been carefully blocked up. This could indicate that is was closed permanently when the community stopped using it. / Alternatively, it could mean that tombs like this were closed up regularly between episodes of use. Even after their final closure, tombs like Cuween probably remained centres for some form of ceremonial activity.