Brodgar

Brodgar is a locality on the Mainland of Orkney, Scotland, known primarily for its proximity to two major Neolithic sites: the Ring of Brodgar and the Ness of Brodgar. The area lies within the broader region of Stenness and is part of the Orkney archipelago’s rich archaeological landscape.

The Ring of Brodgar is a late Neolithic stone circle dating to roughly 2500–2000 BCE. It forms a circular layout about 104 meters in diameter and originally contained many standing stones, with around 27 still visible today. The circle is regarded as one of the best-preserved large stone circles in northern Europe and is closely linked with nearby monuments such as the Stones of Stenness. It is a key component of the Heart of Neolithic Orkney UNESCO World Heritage Site, which highlights the region’s ceremonial and social significance during the Neolithic period.

The Ness of Brodgar is a major Neolithic archaeological complex discovered in the early 2000s, with excavations beginning in the late 1990s and intensifying in the 2000s. Located near Brodgar, the site has revealed a large, planned complex of buildings, walls, and ritual spaces that suggest a centralized and outward-facing community hub. Findings at the Ness of Brodgar have contributed significant new insights into Neolithic life, trade networks, and ceremonial practices in Orkney.

Protection and access: Brodgar and its nearby monuments are part of scheduled monument status and the UNESCO Heart of Neolithic Orkney World Heritage Site. The Ring of Brodgar is publicly accessible via local footpaths and nearby facilities, with visitor information provided in the surrounding area.