New study of monuments built by Scotland’s first farmers

The monuments are found in Argyll and Bute, Western Isles and Highlands.

There are also sites in Ireland and Wales, and similar types in north-west France.

In Scotland, they appeared around the time when the prehistoric way of life known as hunter-gathering shifted to farming.

Dr Helen Spencer, head of research at the Society of Antiquaries of Scotland, said: “This was a hugely important time in Scottish prehistory, which is why it’s so crucial that we address the gaps in our knowledge.

“There’s been a lot of debate about the transition from a hunter-gatherer lifestyle to farming, including how much was due to migration during the Neolithic period and if any of the changes were driven by local populations who took on and adapted to this new way of life.”

Dr Spencer said dating the monuments could help to more precisely date when the first farmers arrived in Scotland from continental Europe, possibly France.

She added: “These results would help answer what are arguably some of the biggest questions in Scottish archaeological research.”

Local communities will be offered the chance to take part in the project.