Cairn Edward

Cairn Edward is a historic site located in Kirkcudbrightshire, Scotland. It is a well-preserved cairn, which is a man-made pile of stones or rocks, believed to have been built during the Neolithic period, around 3000 BCE.

The cairn is situated on a small hill, overlooking the surrounding landscape, and is surrounded by a circular stone wall. It has a diameter of approximately 15 meters and stands at a height of 3 meters. The cairn is constructed using local stones, carefully stacked to form a dome-like structure.

Archaeological excavations conducted at Cairn Edward have revealed the presence of a burial chamber within the cairn. The chamber is accessed through a narrow passage, which leads into a central chamber. The chamber is thought to have been used for multiple burials, as human remains and grave goods, such as pottery and stone tools, have been discovered during the excavations.

The site is significant as it provides valuable insights into the burial practices and social structure of the Neolithic people in the region. The careful construction of the cairn and the presence of grave goods suggest that the burials were of importance to the community and may have held religious or ceremonial significance.

Cairn Edward is now a protected heritage site, managed by the local authorities. It is open to the public, allowing visitors to explore the ancient structure and learn about the history and culture of the Neolithic people who once inhabited the area. Interpretive panels provide information about the site and its significance, enhancing the visitor experience.