Fort reveals Picts and Romans link

Archaeologists have discovered an ancient dwelling which could lead to new understanding of Scottish history.

The team from the Strathearn Environs and Royal Forteviot (Serf) project uncovered an “exquisitely preserved” broch, or hollow-walled structure, dating to the Iron Age (700BC-43AD), near Dunning in Perthshire.

Brochs were the preferred residence of the elite during the Roman era. The fortified dwelling is at the top of a hill, offering the occupants a 360-degree view of their surroundings.

The discovery is the first of its kind in the Scottish Lowlands for around 100 years, and archaeologists say it is full of evidence of early contact between Picts and Romans. Its drystone walls are five metres thick and more than two metres high.

The team said it found evidence to suggest the Picts built a fenced-off fortress on top of the site after the broch was destroyed by fire. It is likely the fortress was occupied by a Pict warlord.

Director of the Serf project, Professor Stephen Driscoll, said: “There can be no doubt we have located one of the major centres of Pictish power from the first and second centuries.

“The scale of the architecture is colossal and the tower-like structure would have visually dominated its surroundings.”

The broch contained some Roman-trade goods: a bronze “patter”, a glass vessel and an “unusual” lead bowl were all in “excellent condition”. The team also uncovered a decorated stone lamp, as well as a spindle whorl and weaving comb.

Prof Driscoll added: “It’s not unreasonable to see this as a seat of a Celtic chieftain who collected a wide range of luxury objects from the Roman world.”

The Serf team comprises people from the universities of Glasgow, Aberdeen and Chester and gets support from students and volunteers from Europe and North America.