Knowe of Yarso Chambered Cairn
Knowe of Yarso image gallery
Enter an ancient burial place dating back over 5,000 years – one of several prehistoric gems on this small island.
Knowe of Yarso is one of at least 15 chambered tombs on the small island of Rousay. These were used for communal burial and their distribution probably relates to landholding by small farming communities.
The remains of at least 29 people were discovered inside the cairn during excavations in 1934. There were also the bones of 36 red deer – reminiscent of the 24 dog skulls found at Cuween Hill.
Together with Blackhammer, Taversöe Tuick and Midhowe, Knowe of Yarso is part of a fascinating trail through prehistory on this small Orcadian island.
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