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 and a substantial proportion of surviving examples are considered
worthy of protection.
Details
This substantial cairn is situated on the summit of Holgate How, a prominent
hill with extensive views in all directions. It is sub-circular with a
diameter of 15m by 18m and an average height of 1.5m. The centre of the cairn
has been disturbed, leaving a depression c.1.5m in diameter. Limestone
fragments are noticeable protruding through the thin turf in places.
Approximately 300m to the south and south west of the monument lies a group of
prehistoric carved stones. These are the subject of separate schedulings.
Legacy
The contents of this record have been generated from a legacy data system.
Legacy System number:
27928
Legacy System:
RSM
End of official list entry
