How brochs were built
Brochs are extraordinary drystone towers built in Scotland during the Iron Age, around 2,000 years ago. These circular structures stand out for their impressive engineering—featuring massive double-skinned walls and entrances carefully designed for strength and protection. Some may have reached heights of 15 metres, making them some of the most sophisticated prehistoric buildings in Europe.
What brochs were used for
While their exact purpose is still debated, brochs likely served multiple roles: fortified homes, status symbols, community hubs, or refuges in times of conflict. Caithness has the highest density of brochs anywhere in Scotland, offering one of the best opportunities to understand how Iron Age people lived, worked, and organised their landscapes.
Discover more
Find out more about brochs, explore the exhibits, and plan your visit to the Caithness Broch Centre.
