Scheduled MonumentsScotlandCowburn, burnt mounds 1027m SE of
Burnt mounds

Cowburn, burnt mounds 1027m SE of

Scotland
HES SM12616
Site type
Burnt mounds
Nation
Scotland
Boundary

Scheduled area

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Overview

History & significance

Cowburn Burnt Mounds is a Bronze Age archaeological site located in Dumfriesshire, Scotland, comprising evidence of ancient thermal activity typical of prehistoric settlement patterns in the region. Burnt mounds, known locally as fulachta fiadh in Celtic contexts, represent the remains of fire-heated stone structures used for cooking and water heating during the Bronze Age. This particular site preserves the characteristic archaeological signature of burnt and fractured stone debris accumulated from repeated heating episodes, indicating sustained use of the location for domestic or specialized food preparation activities. The monument reflects the Bronze Age settlement economy of south-western Scotland and contributes to understanding of prehistoric land use and subsistence practices in the Borderland region.

Cowburn, burnt mounds 1027m SE of is a scheduled monument protected by Historic Environment Scotland under reference SM12616. View the official record →

About this monument

Questions & answers

What is Cowburn, burnt mounds 1027m SE of?

Cowburn Burnt Mounds is a Bronze Age archaeological site located in Dumfriesshire, Scotland, comprising evidence of ancient thermal activity typical of prehistoric settlement patterns in the region. It is designated a Scheduled Ancient Monument by Historic Environment Scotland under reference SM12616.

Who is responsible for protecting Cowburn, burnt mounds 1027m SE of?

Cowburn, burnt mounds 1027m SE of is a Scheduled Ancient Monument, legally protected by Historic Environment Scotland — the body responsible for designating and safeguarding heritage sites in Scotland. The official designation reference is SM12616.

What other scheduled monuments are near Cowburn, burnt mounds 1027m SE of?

Several scheduled monuments lie within 10 km, including Pyatshaws Rig, settlement 965m NE of Meikle Whitriggs (3.5 km), Craighousesteads,fort (3.8 km), Hencastle Rig,fort 140m NW of Old Craighouse (4 km).

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