An ancient mystery is hiding under one of Scotland's major archaeological sites – and it's about to be dug up - HistoryExtra

The Ness of Brodgar, a prominent Neolithic site in Scotland's Orkney archipelago, was covered in 2024 to preserve its structures for future generations. However, a recent discovery at the edge of the site has prompted archaeologists to return for further investigation. The archaeological team, associated with the online show Time Team, utilized a powerful ground-penetrating radar to scan an area that had not been mapped in detail before. The scans revealed an unexpected shape, referred to as an "anomaly," which could potentially alter the understanding of the site.

Historically, the mound where the Ness is located had been overlooked until an archaeological survey in 2002 uncovered evidence of numerous structures beneath the surface. Subsequent excavations revealed nearly 40 buildings, indicating that the site was once a complex and significant center of activity. Archaeologist Nick Card, who has been involved with the site since its early days, emphasized the transformative impact of the Ness on the understanding of Neolithic life and social dynamics.

In 2024, the decision to cover the site was made to protect it from erosion caused by the harsh coastal elements, allowing researchers to analyze their findings from two decades of work. Despite this closure, there remained a belief among the team that undiscovered elements lay beneath the surface. Time Team funded the recent 3D scan of a section of the site, which has led to renewed excitement about what might be uncovered.

The upcoming excavation will involve a team of archaeologists who plan to carefully remove topsoil and dig a trench to explore the anomaly further. While the nature of this new structure is still uncertain, it is noted that it does not resemble the typical rectilinear shapes of known Neolithic buildings. Instead, it presents a different form that has not been previously documented at the Ness.

If this anomaly is indeed from a later period than the Neolithic, it could suggest a continued occupation of the site, indicating that its significance was recognized across centuries. However, details about the findings remain closely guarded, as archaeologists are cautious not to speculate prematurely. The anticipation surrounding this discovery is heightened by the fact that new episodes of Time Team are set to air, which will likely reveal more about the ongoing research at the Ness of Brodgar.