Scotland’s international connections uncovered by summer of archaeology

For the sixth year Scotland Digs 2024: International Connections campaign, organised by Dig It! Scotland, assembled 22 events for the public to take part in over the summer.

Volunteers helped archaeologists survey, record, and excavate in urban and rural areas across the country with an emphasis on this year’s campaign on how learning about Scotland’s international history can help combat harmful narratives.

The campaign ran from June 20 to September 23 and volunteers helped find important historical discoveries, including an Iron Age belt hook in Orkney which is thought to have been made around 2000 years ago.

READ MORE: Top archaeologist explains why Scotland’s history is so important to learn from

Uncovered at the Knowe of Swandro in Rousay, analysis of the metal suggests it was made from recycled Roman brass.

(Image: S.J. Dockrill)

Swandro was home to a large settlement occupied from around 1000 BC to AD 1200, and consists of Iron Age roundhouses and Pictish buildings. It is now being destroyed by coastal erosion accelerated by climate change.

Visitors were welcomed throughout the excavation and a free open day with Viking and Iron Age costumes and 3D printed models from photogrammetry images of the site was also held simultaneously.

Dr Simon Gilmour, director at the Society of Antiquaries of Scotland which helped fund the campaign, said the project helped to remind people that Scotland’s history is deeply intertwined with the rest of the world.

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He said: “Archaeology is a powerful tool for learning about our past and shaping our future.

“Over the summer, Scotland Digs 2024: International Connections has reminded us that our nation’s story is not isolated but has been deeply intertwined with the global narrative for millennia.

“We’re proud to have promoted the work of organisations across the country through this Dig It! campaign, inviting the public to explore this shared history.”

Another highlight of the campaign was the discovery of medieval pottery in Fife.

Unearthed at Lindores Abbey, a 12th-century monastery with a tradition of distilling dating back to the 15th century, the piece of French pottery is believed to have been made in either Rouen or Reims around 600 years ago.

(Image: MAFS)

The public was invited to tour the site and attend a free open day co-ordinated by the summer field school students from Global St Andrews.

The team hopes to return in June 2025 to uncover more and welcome members of the public to the site once again.

Dr Susan O’Connor, head of grants at Historic Environment Scotland (HES), said Dig It! offer unparalleled opportunities for members of the public to get involved, even if they have zero experience with archaeology.

She said: “We are proud to support Dig It! and their ongoing efforts to make Scotland’s rich archaeological heritage accessible to all.

“The activities promoted this year not only highlighted fascinating discoveries but also showcased Scotland’s deep connections with the wider world through history.

“By celebrating international links from Roman trade to medieval European travel routes, Dig It! continues to offer unparalleled opportunities for communities to engage with the past.

“We’re excited to see how these discoveries enhance our understanding of Scotland’s place in global history and inspire people to get hands-on with archaeology.”