A Tale of Two Citadels – Recent Work at Burghead Fort

Join Elinor Graham from the University of Aberdeen for a fascinating talk about the latest discoveries at Burghead Pictish fort, one of Scotland’s most remarkable early medieval sites.

Elinor will share exciting findings from the University’s Northern Picts team and the ongoing excavations of the CITADEL Project. Together, these investigations are transforming our understanding of the Picts and their world.

Discovering Burghead Pictish fort

Located on the Moray coast, Burghead is the largest and most complex promontory fort of its date in Scotland. It was once an important centre of power, yet much of its story remained hidden for centuries.

Recent excavations have uncovered impressive defensive ramparts, evidence of extensive settlement and signs of specialist craftsmanship.

These discoveries suggest that Burghead was home to a sophisticated community. They also reveal how important this site was within the wider landscape of early medieval northeast Scotland.

What have archaeologists discovered?

The excavations have revealed far more activity within the fort than researchers previously expected.

In particular, archaeologists have identified elaborate defences and evidence of complex occupation. The discoveries offer fresh insights into daily life, skilled craftwork and the organisation of this high-status settlement.

As a result, researchers are beginning to build a much clearer picture of the people who lived and worked at Burghead.

Why is the archaeology at risk?

Despite these discoveries, the future of Burghead’s archaeological remains is uncertain.

The modern village has developed over parts of the historic fort. Meanwhile, coastal erosion continues to threaten the cliffs surrounding the site.

This makes the work of the CITADEL Project especially urgent. Archaeologists are working to recover valuable information before further evidence is damaged or lost to the sea.

Join us for the talk

Whether you’re interested in archaeology, Pictish history or Scotland’s early medieval past, this talk offers a wonderful opportunity to hear about the latest discoveries.

You can also explore the Pictish heritage of the Black Isle through the Pictish Stone collection at Groam House Museum.