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 180m WSW of Higher Conquer 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 on the summit of the ridge known as Carnaquidden Downs. The cairn survives as a circular stony mound which measures up to 12.5m in diameter and 1.3m high. There are traces of a largely buried surrounding quarry ditch, from which material to construct the cairn was derived. The mound has a slight central depression which may mark the position of early antiquarian excavation.
Other archaeological remains in the vicinity are the subject of a separate scheduling.
Legacy
The contents of this record have been generated from a legacy data system.
Legacy System number:
CO 660
Legacy System:
RSM - OCN
End of official list entry
