Brochs, which were up to 42 feet (13 m) high, are some of the most striking buildings from Iron Age Scotland.

It was believed that the great stone towers could have served as dwellings either for one chieftain, or for several families. They were situated against an amazing Scottish landscape. 

Historical experts have now revealed plans to construct a Broch in Caithness. This would mark the first construction of such an structure in over 2,000 Years.

These stunning images showcase the Broch’s appearance against the Scottish landscape in 2023.

Caithness Broch Project, a charity that is behind the project hopes that visitors will be able to ‘hands-on’ with our past through the broch.

Historians have revealed ambitious plans to build a broch in Caithness, marking the first time such a structure has been constructed in nearly 2,000 years

The ambitious plans of historians to construct a Broch in Caithness have been revealed by them. It will be the first ever such structure built in close to 2,000 year.

Stunning images show what the broch will look like against the Scottish landscape when it begins construction in 2023

These stunning images showcase the appearance of the broch in the Scottish landscape, when it starts construction in 2023

What’s a broch? 

The Brochs, Iron Age structures constructed between 400 BC to 100 AD, are unique in Scotland.

Although there were at least 700 brochs in Scotland once, most of them are no longer available.

A tower usually had one small entrance that led into a circular central courtyard. 

The walls were voided by steps, which allowed residents to access higher platforms with easy step-ups.  

Although the exact purpose of these buildings is still unknown, experts think they were dwellings.

It explained that the construction of a replica broch allowed them to connect with the past at an unimaginable level.

‘By attempting to build this structure as authentically as possible – working with tools of the past and using techniques familiar to our Iron Age ancestors – we gain a deeper understanding of how the brochs were built.

“This allows us to solve difficult archaeological questions that can only be solved by getting close to our past.”

The Brochs, Iron Age structures constructed between 400 BC to 100 AD, are unique in Scotland.

Although there were at least 700 brochs in Scotland once, most of them are not well-maintained.

The typical tower had only one entrance that led to an inner courtyard. 

The walls were voided by steps, which allowed residents to access higher platforms with easy step-ups.  

Experts believe that the structures were used as homes.

According to the CaithnessBroch Project, “Certainly it can be agreed these were magnificent buildings with some exceeding 13 metres tall, and they would’ve had an imposing presence upon the landscape.”

Brochs are Iron Age structures built between 400 BC and 100 AD that were unique to Scotland. It is estimated that at least 700 brochs once existed across Scotland, although most are now in a poor state of repair

The broch is an Iron Age structure that was built in Scotland between 400 BC to 100 AD. Although there were at least 700 of these brochs in Scotland once, most are currently in poor condition.

The reconstructed version will be furnished with traditional furniture, and will host tours for tourists and locals by actors

It will feature traditional furnishings and host tour opportunities for locals and tourists by actors.

It will feature traditional furnishings and host performances by local actors.

The experts said: ‘We believe our broch will be of interest both to the casual tourist and to those with a strong interest in archaeology either as a hobby, an academic pursuit, or a profession – something everyone can not only appreciate, but can learn from, and be inspired by.

“Perhaps the most important thing is that the broch will be a tourist attraction in an area facing difficult circumstances. 

The area will lose more than 20% of its population over the next 20 years. It must now diversify its workforce to sustainable economic activities. 

‘The broch will not only help to provide jobs, but will also help to bolster the local tourist economy – vital in ensuring there is opportunity for individuals and families within the region.’

In the coming 12 months, the charity will be able to buy land and start building next year.

‘A project of such unprecedented ambition – if we do say so ourselves! This means there are many things to know and plan for.

“But even though it moves slow, it’s still exciting and we’re committed to moving the project forward bit by bit every day.

HOW DO WE KNOW IRON-AGE BRITAIN IS?

As the Bronze Age ended, Britain’s Iron Age began. 

The Romans invaded 43AD and it ended around 800BC. 

This period witnessed large-scale changes, as indicated by its name. Iron working technology was introduced.

The population of Britain was probably over one million during this time. 

New farming methods, like the introduction of wheat and barley varieties, made this possible.

It was possible to grow crops in clay soils with the invention of the iron-tipped tractor plough.

Some major innovations were made during the period, including the invention of the potter’s wheel and the lathe for woodworking.

The UK has nearly 3000 Iron Age hill forts. Some of these forts were built as permanent residences while others served as places to gather, trade, and perform religious activity.

During that time, most people lived on small farms and had extended families.

Standard houses were made from timber, stone and topped with a thatch- or turf roof.

There were many burial practices, but most were excarnated. This means that they were deliberately left exposed.

Some bog bodies from that period are preserved, and they show evidence of brutal deaths through ritual or sacrificial murder.

The Romans gained more influence in the southern France and western Mediterranean regions towards the end this time.

The Romans conquest of England, 43AD seems to have been preceded by connections with many tribes. They could therefore exert some influence.

All of Wales and England, below Hadrian’s Wall, became part of Rome in 43AD. Iron Age life continued in Scotland and Ireland for longer periods.