Extraordinary Discovery at Ness of Brodgar, Scotland: New 3D Scans Could Rewrite Neolithic History

Archaeologists are preparing to resume excavations at the internationally renowned Ness of Brodgar after advanced 3D radar scans revealed what experts are calling an “extraordinary” and potentially history-changing discovery. The site, located in the heart of Orkney’s UNESCO-listed landscape, has already transformed understanding of Neolithic Britain. Now, fresh evidence beneath the surface could add an entirely new chapter to its story.


The Ness of Brodgar, a narrow strip of land between the lochs of Stenness and Harray in Orkney, lies within the Heart of Neolithic Orkney World Heritage Site. It sits just southeast of the iconic Ring of Brodgar and close to the Stones of Stenness—two monumental stone circles often compared to Stonehenge in southern England.

20 Years of Excavation

Between 2004 and 2024, archaeologists uncovered around 40 stone structures at the three-hectare site. These monumental buildings, constructed in phases between roughly 3500BC and 2400BC, featured walls up to four meters thick and finely crafted stonework. Richly decorated pottery, painted stones, and evidence of large-scale feasting suggested the Ness was not an ordinary settlement but likely a ceremonial and social hub for prehistoric communities.

The Ness of Brodgar Trust has described the site as “without parallel in Atlantic Europe,” and many experts consider it one of the most significant Neolithic discoveries in the British Isles.

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https://arkeonews.net/extraordinary-discovery-at-ness-of-brodgar-scotland-new-3d-scans-could-rewrite-neolithic-history/