Excavated by a Dr Eaun McKie, he confirms that the circle was abanoned before completion. The stoneholes of the circle were composed of two elipses with a midsummer/midwinter line of symmetry aligned with a mountain in N.Ireland.
I am sure that these rock carvings are fading rapidly. If the elemants don't get them then the mentals will. Something needs to be done quickly in order to save these National Treasures.
Recently published is a lovely little travel book called Findings, written by the poet Kathleen Jamie based on some eclectic travels around Scotland.
The first chapter, Darkness and Light, is about her visit to Maeshowe for the winter solstice. For anyone who has been, or is intending to go, its an evocative and stimulating read.