Reconstructed Crannog

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Reconstructed Crannog

Reconstruction of an ancient Crannog. A Crannog is a settlement located on an artificial island in the middle of the lake designed to offer protection to the inhabitants and their animals. Crannogs date from the Bronze Age. Thatched huts are surrounded by a wooden fence and water. At the entrance is a watchtower overlooking a walkway which gives access to the settlement. The artificial island was created by building up a base consisting of a layers of stones, followed by tree trunks, brush etc. on the lake bed. Wooden pilings held the sructure in place. It was then covered with a layer of earth. The thatched houses were constructed of wattle and mud. In the foreground is a reconstruction of an Iron Age field. Ridges were made to improve drainage and grain and other seeds planted. This Crannog is part of the Craggaunowen Project in County Clare, Ireland

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Media ID 6334483

© SHEILA TERRY/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY

Bronze Age Eire Ireland Iron Age Reconstruction County Clare Crannog Thatched Huts

EDITORS COMMENTS
This print showcases the meticulous reconstruction of an ancient Crannog, a settlement that flourished during the Bronze Age. Nestled on an artificial island in the heart of a serene lake, this fortified haven provided protection to its inhabitants and their cherished animals. The scene is adorned with charming thatched huts enveloped by a sturdy wooden fence and shimmering water. At the entrance stands a watchtower, offering both security and panoramic views over a walkway leading into the heart of this remarkable settlement. To create this man-made island, layers of stones were meticulously stacked upon each other, followed by tree trunks and brush placed atop the lake bed. Wooden pilings firmly anchored the structure in place before it was covered with earth. The houses within this reconstructed Crannog were ingeniously crafted using wattle and mud techniques, showcasing the resourcefulness of our ancestors. In front of them lies an intriguing reconstruction of an Iron Age field where ridges were carefully formed to enhance drainage for optimal agricultural yield. Here, grain and various seeds were sown as part of Iron Age farming practices. This awe-inspiring Crannog forms part of Ireland's esteemed Craggaunowen Project located in County Clare – a testament to both historical preservation and archaeological ingenuity. Through such reconstructions, we gain invaluable insights into ancient civilizations' building methods while marveling at their ability to adapt to their surroundings for survival.

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