Notes on Excavations at Dundargue Castle, Aberdeenshire, and on a Stone Circle and Grave at New Deer, Aberdeenshire

Abstract

Dundargue Castle sits on a rocky promontory and is thought to date from at least the 14th century. Excavation confirmed the existence of a triple rampart and triple ditch which probably predate the stone buildings within. Artefacts included a coin of Edward I and post-medieval tokens. Pottery sherds from a minimum of fourteen or fifteen vessels are 14th century in date. The stone circle was broken up during the first half of the 18th century. Ploughing in the vicinity revealed flints and a stone axe. Four pits containing cremated bone were excavated. A stone-lined oval grave contained 'some bone' and one of the stones was cup marked.