Jarlshof

Jarlshof is an archaeological site located on the southern tip of the Shetland island of Mainland, Scotland. It is one of the most important and well-preserved prehistoric and Norse sites in the United Kingdom. The site was occupied for over 4,000 years, from the Neolithic period through the Iron Age, Pictish era, and into the Viking and Norse periods. This long span of continuous settlement has resulted in a complex layering of different architectural styles and artifacts, offering a unique insight into the changing cultures and lifestyles of its inhabitants.

The earliest remains at Jarlshof date back to around 2700 BC and include a Neolithic stone oval house. Later Iron Age settlements include a Broch, a wheelhouse, and a souterrain. The Pictish period is represented by a settlement with a distinctive type of stone-walled house. The most substantial and visible remains at Jarlshof are from the Norse period, dating from the 9th century AD onwards. These include a longhouse, a smithy, and a farmstead, which provide significant evidence of Viking life in the Northern Isles. The site was excavated extensively in the early 20th century by Sir William Traill. Today, Jarlshof is a popular tourist attraction managed by Historic Environment Scotland and offers a remarkable glimpse into the rich archaeological history of Shetland.