Brief
Archaeologists uncover sixth‑century monastery on Scotland’s Lismore
A team led by Dr Clare Ellis uncovered extensive burial grounds, stonework and gold‑smithing crucibles at a sixth‑century monastic site on Lismore.
By Felo News Desk · Published
Excavations on the Scottish island of Lismore have revealed a major sixth‑century monastery, according to the Guardian.
The dig, funded by grants, donations and a crowdfunding campaign, was led by archaeologist Dr Clare Ellis of Argyll Archaeology and involved local volunteers. Researchers uncovered extensive burial grounds, decorated stonework and early buildings comparable to the famous Iona site.
Among the finds were large numbers of crucibles used to melt gold, copper and silver, indicating high‑status craftworking on the island in the seventh century. Retired plant scientist Robert Hay, who coordinated fundraising and volunteer efforts, described the crucibles as “the best small crucibles ever found in Scotland”.
Professor Gordon Noble of the University of Aberdeen said the discoveries show the monastery of Lios Mór, founded by Saint Mo Luóc, was an internationally important early Christian centre rather than a remote backwater.
Key facts
- Excavations on Lismore uncovered a sixth‑century monastery with burial grounds and decorated stonework. (theguardian.com)
- Large numbers of crucibles used for gold, copper and silver casting were found, dating to the seventh century. (theguardian.com)
- The project was led by Dr Clare Ellis of Argyll Archaeology and funded by grants, donations and crowdfunding. (theguardian.com)
- Robert Hay coordinated fundraising and volunteer work for the dig. (theguardian.com)
- Professor Gordon Noble of the University of Aberdeen called the site internationally important. (theguardian.com)
Sources
- [1] theguardian.com — originally reported as “‘Hugely exciting’ finds on tiny Scottish island shed light on spread of Christianity”
