The Ring of Brodgar set in the Heart of Neolithic Orkney is extremely popular with locals and visitors alike.
For 5,000 years people have gone to this site. The important conservation work being done by Historic Environment Scotland will ensure that for generations to come this iconic site will still be there.
The Orkney News reported this week on the summer solstice ceremony which took place there. You can read about it here. Orkney Celebrates the Summer Solstice
It was a very peaceful and uplifting experience that locals and visitors to our islands participated in. Others too came to the Ring to watch the sun rise on the longest day of the Year.
One large group came in a bus and unfortunately went through the centre of the circle. Trampling over the vegetation that keeps this sensitive area protected.
It is selfish unthinking behaviour like this with no thought to the consequences which causes damage to so many of our wonderful sites in Orkney.
After this incident a spokesperson for Historic Environment Scotland said:
“Historic Environment Scotland (HES) welcomes respectful visits to the Ring of Brodgar, which is open year-round.
“We recently restricted access to the centre of the ring, with a temporary rope barrier in place, to prevent freshly planted grass from being damaged.
“For several years, HES has granted permission to a local group to hold a summer solstice ceremony in the early morning at the site, which they do considerately and without disturbing the site. This year, the local group held their ceremony at the Comet Stone below the Ring of Brodgar and all were welcome to join them.
“We are aware of reports of another group visiting the site and crossing the temporary barrier on 21st June. This group did not seek HES’ permission and we are making enquiries.
“We ask any group wishing to hold an event at one of our sites to seek permission from HES.”
If we want the generations to come to still be able to celebrate the solstice or any other day at the Ring of Brodgar we have to be mindful of the result of our actions.
“A people without the knowledge of their past history, origin and culture is like a tree without roots.” Marcus Garvey
Ring of Brodgar, Orkney (F Grahame)
Reporter: Fiona Grahame
Categories: Uncategorized
So many sites are fenced off all the time, and people can’t go to them, at all. We are very, very fortunate to still be able to actually visit the Ring of Brodgar, Stones of Stenness, and the other Orkney sites which are always accessible to the public.
Very, very fortunate indeed. Let’s hope it can remain so.
the fences are all temporary so that the ground can rest and repair itself
I know – I know that the fences at Brodgar are temporary, for the turf to try to get re-established – I live here, and that place is very dear to my heart.
The footfall has become too much for it, HES have tried using that plastic with holes in, which grass can grow through, but the weather fights them, all the way. I know this, and I know that you know this, Fiona.
The point I’m hoping to make is…that many sites, throughout Britain and world-wide, are not accessible. Brodgar, Stenness, Barnhouse. Cuween, Wideford, Unstan etc etc etc are all there, for us to visit, free, open.
I don’t know why we’re spatting about this, as we are in agreement – strong agreement.
I’ll stop commenting on this. I’ve said my say anyway – and – when it comes down to it – what does my say, matter?
“I’m just a soul whose intentions are good – oh lord, please don’t let me be misunderstood.”
I wasn’t disagreeing with you just adding to your comment (Fiona)
Had a vow renewal there and HES were very helpful and supportive. Can’t believe people are brought here and are disrespectful to this wonderful site. Seems strange to want to worship nature whilst destroying it.