New Guide to the Island's historic sites

New Guide to the Island's historic sites

Wed, 10 May 2017

A new book has just been published which, for the first time, provides a comprehensive guide to the Island’s archaeological sites.

Featuring over eighty locations, including stone circles, carved crosses, parish churches, castles, Bronze Age and Iron Age settlements, A Guide to the Archaeological Sites of the Isle of Man is an ideal companion for anyone wanting to explore these treasures and learn more about the complex history of the Manx people from earliest times.

The Isle of Man has been inhabited for nearly 10,000 years and as a result is exceptionally rich in archaeological remains, many of which are easily accessible by the public and are often to be found in spectacular sites around the Island.

If you’d wondered where you can find an Iron Age hillfort, a Bronze Age burial or a giant’s grave, then this is the book for you. The guide is pocket-size and is lavishly illustrated in full colour. Each site is accompanied by a location map, details of how to get there and information on disabled access. The sites are described in detail and the text brings together the latest research and interpretations in an informative and accessible way, and references to further reading are provided for those who might want to delve deeper into the academic analysis of the sites.

The texts have been written by two of the Island’s leading archaeologists, Andrew Johnson and Allison Fox, both curators at Manx National Heritage, with a detailed overview of Manx archaeology by Dr Peter Davey. Culture Vannin has brought together their expertise with photographs by David Radcliffe, maps and other information to make this a unique publication.

Chair of Culture Vannin, Hon. Chris Thomas MHK, said:

‘I am sure users of this book will be inspired to spend many fascinating hours walking the hills or exploring the towns looking for these places, and in doing so, they will be able to learn a great deal about our history and the lives of the people who have made it the unique place it is today.’

A Guide to the Archaeological Sites of the Isle of Man is the perfect gift for anyone interested in our history, heritage and sense of place, and for those who enjoy walking and exploring our wonderful Island. It is available from book and museum shops on the Island.