In archaeology, the term “wheelhouse” refers to a structure or dwelling that was circular in shape and constructed out of stone or turf. These structures were primarily found in Scotland, particularly in the northern and western islands, and were built during the Iron Age.

The term “wheelhouse” comes from the fact that these structures often had a central hearth or fireplace, which acted as the hub of the dwelling. The walls of the wheelhouse would then radiate outwards, creating a spoke-like pattern. This design allowed for maximum heat distribution and efficient use of space.

Wheelhouses were typically between 5 and 8 meters in diameter and were built on level ground, often near sources of water. The walls of the wheelhouse were constructed using dry-stone walling techniques, and the roof was usually made from turf, thatch or timber.

Archaeologists believe that wheelhouses were used as semi-subterranean dwellings, with the occupants living in the ground level of the structure and using the upper part of the wheelhouse for storage or religious purposes.

Inside the wheelhouse, there was usually a central hearth or fireplace, which would have been used for cooking and heating. The floors were often made from packed earth, and there may have been stone benches or platforms built into the walls for sitting and sleeping.

One of the most intriguing features of wheelhouses is the presence of a small pit or alcove in the floor, known as a “beehive cell”. Archaeologists are still unsure about the purpose of these features, but they may have been used for storage or as a shrine or sanctuary.

While most wheelhouses are found in Scotland, there are some examples of similar circular structures in other parts of the world. For example, the Navajo Indians of North America built circular hogans, which were used as dwellings, and the Masai of Africa constructed circular bomas for their livestock.

The discovery of wheelhouses has provided archaeologists with valuable insights into the lives of Iron Age people in Scotland. It is believed that wheelhouses were used from around 200 BC until the early 2nd century AD, and they were found in both rural and urban areas.

As well as being used for domestic purposes, wheelhouses may also have had religious or ritual significance. In some cases, they may have been used as “concentric stone circles”, where stone circles were built around the central hearth or fireplace.

Despite the significance of wheelhouses, they are still shrouded in mystery. For example, we do not know what led to their construction, what their specific social or economic function was, or why they disappeared from use.

In conclusion, wheelhouses are an intriguing and unique part of Scotland’s archaeological heritage. These circular dwellings provided Iron Age people with efficient and functional housing and may have also played an important role in their religious and ritual practices. While much is still unknown about wheelhouses, their discovery and exploration continue to be an important part of archaeological research in Scotland.

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