Having been settled around 5000 years ago one finds remains of neolithic settlements on Orkney. Chambered cairns were the places where the ancient people buried the dead. A coast with plenty of peninsulas provided living space. Brochs sheltered by the sea protected against enemies. Standing stones give an impression how big the settlements must have been despite still not knowing what they were built for. On their way to Greenland the Vikings discovered the long ago abandoned settlements and “converted” chambered tombs to hiding places. Scapa Flow with direct access to the Atlantic and North Atlantic has always been a natural and deep water harbour for big fleets. Fishing and farming provided food. Museums display recent farming tools. Old mills are still in use and Whisky is produced for more than 200 years.
Kirkwall:
