Re: Sarue | Forum — The Modern Antiquarian

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tiompan Sep 21, 2008 15:08:23

Replying to gjrk

gjrk wrote:

Thank you very much Tiompan. The contrast is quite stark at Knockwaddra, where a 200m walk over the ridge will carry you to the larger row, with larger views. I suppose there's no point trying to jam a car wheel on a bicycle, but still, it makes you wonder. Any thoughts?

It is a feature of so many different types of monument , there must be some sort of grammar involved . Portal tombs are great examples so often one side is "protected " by a hillside regardless of elevation . Boundaries may be a possibility ,and once again in relation to portal tombs the presence of a nearby water course may be actual boundary .

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FourWinds Sep 21, 2008 21:06:26

Replying to gjrk

gjrk wrote:

Thank you very much Tiompan. The contrast is quite stark at Knockwaddra, where a 200m walk over the ridge will carry you to the larger row, with larger views. I suppose there's no point trying to jam a car wheel on a bicycle, but still, it makes you wonder. Any thoughts?

Sometimes it's about visibility from below. If you stick a monument on the top of the hill it is rarely visible from the lower slopes and can only be seen from afar. Placing it on the crown of the hill puts it against the skyline from more places and closer to the hill - very important if it belongs to local people. This is more often seen with barrow, but many tombs and rows have the same treatment.

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gjrk Sep 21, 2008 23:51:21

Replying to gjrk

Thanks Tiompan (and sorry about the delay in replying) and 4W. Both your replies make sense and I'll be able to rattle more possibilities around my head next time I get out. Won't be able to remember my way home soon. ;~)