Iron Age Isles: Unveiling the Secrets of Lewis’s Ancient Past

The Iron Age on the Isle of Lewis, like in other parts of the British Isles, began around 800 BC and lasted until the Roman period, which in Scotland, including the Outer Hebrides like Lewis, began around AD 43 with the Roman invasion. So, the Iron Age on the Isle of Lewis likely spanned from roughly 800 BC to AD 43.

During this time, iron became the primary material for tools and weapons, marking a technological shift from the preceding Bronze Age. Communities in the Iron Age constructed various structures, such as brochs (circular stone towers), duns (fortified homes), and other types of settlements. They also engaged in agriculture, metalworking, and trade.

The archaeological record on the Isle of Lewis, including artefacts and the remains of structures, provides valuable insights into the daily lives and culture of the people who lived during the Iron Age in this region. The Lewis Chessmen, while often associated with the Viking Age due to their craftsmanship and style, are believed to have been made in the late Iron Age, showcasing the artistic and craft skills of the time.