Reasons for Designation
Round cairns are prehistoric funerary monuments dating to the Bronze Age (c.2000-700 BC). They were constructed as stone mounds covering single or multiple burials. These burials may be placed within the mound in stone-lined compartments called cists. In some cases the cairn was surrounded by a ditch. Often occupying prominent locations, cairns are a major visual element in the modern landscape. They are a relatively common feature of the uplands and are the stone equivalent of the earthen round barrows of the lowlands. Their considerable variation in form and longevity as a monument type provide important information on the diversity of beliefs and social organisation amongst early prehistoric communities. They are particularly representative of their period. Despite partial early excavation, the round cairn 185m NNW of Old Hilltop Farm survives well and will contain archaeological and environmental evidence relating to its construction, longevity, territorial significance, social organisation, funerary and ritual practices and overall landscape context.
Details
The monument includes a round cairn, situated at the northern summit of the prominent hill called Carnmenellis. The cairn survives as a circular stony mound measuring up to 25m in diameter and 3m high. Incorporated into the mound on the western side is part of a natural tor, and there are at least three large visible slabs forming part of a rectangular internal cist-like structure. An Ordnance Survey triangulation pillar has been sited on the summit. This is excluded from the scheduling, although the ground beneath is included.
Legacy
The contents of this record have been generated from a legacy data system.
Legacy System number:
CO 973
Legacy System:
RSM - OCN
End of official list entry
