Geophysical prospection at Caisteal Mac Tuathal, Perthshire, Scotland

Abstract

Topographic, magnetometry, and ground penetrating radar surveys were conducted at the potential Iron Age hillfort of Caisteal Mac Tuathal in Perthshire, Scotland to determine structural extents within, and propose areas of interest for future studies at, the site This survey concluded the terrace at the base of the southern slope and the area circumscribed by the visible rampart features and cliff faces to be void of potential archaeological anomalies, and no potential structures or entrances were located along the southwestern rampart. However, radar and magnetic anomalies interpreted as a potential structure or “platform”, and an entrance through the rampart, together with a secondary structure were observed along the northwestern rampart. The details of these potential structures are poorly understood because ground-truthing was not conducted during this study. Regardless, this geophysical exploration of Caisteal Mac Tuathal has improved our understanding of the site and structures therein.