braering

The Braering is a large, circular structure located in the town of Brae, Orkney, Scotland. It is a Neolithic henge monument, dating back to around 2800-2500 BCE, making it one of the oldest known man-made structures in the British Isles. The Braering is a significant archaeological site, offering insights into the Neolithic culture of the region.

The monument consists of a circular ditch, approximately 100 meters in diameter, surrounded by a bank. Within this ditch, there are several standing stones, some of which are over 2 meters tall. The stones are believed to have been used for ceremonial or ritual purposes. The Braering is thought to have been constructed in phases, with the earliest phase dating back to the Neolithic period.

The Braering is a Scheduled Ancient Monument, meaning it is protected by law in the UK. It is also a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) due to its archaeological and geological significance. The monument is open to the public and is maintained by Historic Scotland, the national historic body for Scotland.

The Braering is one of the most important Neolithic monuments in Scotland, and its study has contributed significantly to our understanding of the Neolithic period. It is a popular destination for visitors interested in archaeology and history, and it is often featured in guidebooks and tourist literature.