Two Stone Sentinels from different era’s, many generations apart and many generations ago…
The top stone is at Nether Largie and is one of several Standing Stone. It dates back to Neolithic times. The image directly above is at Kilmartin Church. Just a few of the intricately carved Crosses, Grave Markers and Memorial Stones, all dating to a period between 1300ad and the1600’s ad.
These stones can all be found in Argyll, south of Oban in Kilmartin Glen. It is just one location in this area of Argyll that is littered with Standing Stones, Burial Mounds and Neolithic and Bonze Age remains and settlements.
Kilmartin Glen has perhaps the largest location of sites in very close proximity to each other. Nether Largie is the where you will find many of the Standing Stones, most displaying ‘Cup and Ring’ markings. They are also surrounded by Cists and Burial Mounds.
Just a short walk away you will find Temple Wood.
Temple Wood is a much more compact and concentrated Neolithic Site. The standing Stones are also more in the style we know as a ‘Henge’. I also understand this Henge is on and was intended to mark a burial site.
Although these are two different locations you do tend to link the two together. But both create an independent atmosphere of their very own.
Nether Largie and Temple Wood are both within sight of Kilmartin Parish Church. It is this Church that now plays host to the Caved Memorial Stones. More modern they may be but still of an age. Many of these stones were not originally from the Church or Kilmartin. Some have been discovered in the surrounding countryside and brought to Kilmartin for safety over the centuries. Within the Church you will find two Celtic Crosses and within the grounds of the Church some of the most precious stones have been placed in shelter…open to view but safe from the elements.
Visitors wanting to fine out more can also visit the Kilmartin Museum and Visitor Centre, you will probably come out with your head spinning with new found knowledge.
But before you leave the Church , take a look at the Lunar Dial…. a rather nice modern addition.
Please Remember ….
Stay Safe …. Be Kind…. Look After Each Other
5th July
(C) David Oakes 2020
DAVID OAKES - IMAGES. 