Reasons for Designation
Kerbed cairns are prehistoric funerary monuments dating to the Bronze Age (c.2000-700 BC). They were constructed as stone mounds defined by an outer kerb of upright stones or walling 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, kerbed 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 kerbed cairn 225m south of Heather Farm survives well and retains its original features it 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 kerbed cairn, situated on the north eastern slopes of Carn Kenidjack. The cairn survives as a circular stony mound of up to 6m in diameter with a visible retaining kerb of up to eleven upright retaining stones standing up to 0.5m high. A stone lined cist with the capstone is still in place and measures approximately 1m long, 0.6m wide and 0.4m deep. The barrow was partially excavated by WC Borlase in the 1870's when a cup marked stone is believed to have been retrieved. It is known locally as 'Portherras Barrow'.
Legacy
The contents of this record have been generated from a legacy data system.
Legacy System number:
CO 1089
Legacy System:
RSM - OCN
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