Broch of Burrian

The Broch of Burrian is an Iron Age broch located on North Ronaldsay in the Orkney Islands [1]. The broch stands on a small headland next to a rocky shoreline [1]. The broch has an external diameter of 18 metres and an internal diameter of 9.5 metres [1]. The broch is surrounded by outer defences consisting of the remains of four concentric ramparts on the landward side [1]. The Broch of Burrian was excavated by William Traill, proprietor of the island, in 1870 and 1871 [1]. A large number of artefacts, including a significant quantity of worked bone objects, were discovered [1]. In addition, a number of artefacts of early historic or Pictish date were found [1]. These include a cross-slab with ogham inscription, painted pebbles and part of an iron bell of Celtic type [1].