Tor cairn

Tor Cairn

A tor cairn is a type of prehistoric monument found predominantly in the British Isles, particularly in areas such as Dartmoor in Devon, England. These structures are characterized by their placement on or near natural rock outcrops known as tors. Tor cairns are believed to have been constructed during the Bronze Age, serving various ceremonial and possibly funerary purposes.

Description

Tor cairns are typically composed of stone and earth, forming a mound or platform around a natural tor. The size and complexity of these cairns can vary significantly, with some being simple piles of stones, while others are more elaborate, featuring multiple concentric rings or kerbs.

The choice of location for tor cairns is significant, as tors are prominent natural features that would have been visible from great distances. This visibility suggests that tor cairns may have served as territorial markers or as sites for communal gatherings and rituals.

Construction

The construction of tor cairns involved the careful selection and placement of stones, often utilizing the natural contours of the tor itself. The stones used in these cairns were typically sourced locally, and their arrangement may have held symbolic significance.

In some cases, tor cairns are associated with other prehistoric features, such as stone circles, standing stones, or burial mounds. This association suggests that tor cairns were part of a broader landscape of ritual and ceremonial activity.

Function

The exact function of tor cairns remains a subject of debate among archaeologists. Some theories propose that they were used as burial sites, while others suggest they served as platforms for rituals or as markers of territorial boundaries.

The presence of tor cairns in areas with other ceremonial structures indicates that they were part of a complex network of prehistoric religious and social practices. The alignment of some tor cairns with astronomical events, such as solstices or equinoxes, further supports the idea of their use in ritual activities.

Examples

Notable examples of tor cairns can be found on Dartmoor, where they are often situated in prominent locations with extensive views of the surrounding landscape. These sites provide valuable insights into the social and religious practices of Bronze Age communities.

Also see

• Dartmoor
• Bronze Age Britain
• Stone circle
• Standing stone
• Burial mound