Mystery Unearthed: Viking-Era Stone Head Discovered by Archaeology Student in Scottish Isles
Ever stumble upon something so old and mysterious that it makes you wonder if history’s playing a cheeky joke on you? Well, archaeology student Katie Joss did just that on the windswept isle of Rousay, part of Scotland’s Orkney archipelago—affectionately dubbed the “Egypt of the north” for its treasure trove of ancient wonders. While digging at the historic Skaill Farm settlement, Katie’s hands unearthed a 900-year-old carved stone head that’s as enigmatic as it is captivating. With its calm, closed eyes and a knowing smile, this Viking-era artifact seems to whisper tales from a bygone world—except, why the broken nose? Was it vandalism or just the wear and tear of centuries? And what kind of story did this serene face once watch over in the shadow of old parish churches and forgotten grandeur? It’s a riddle wrapped in sandstone, plucked right out of the earth to tease our imaginations. Curious to dive deeper? LEARN MORE
Archaeology student Katie Joss found the 900-year-old carving at the historic Skaill Farm settlement on Rousay, one of Scotland’s Orkney Islands that’s known as the “Egypt of the north” due to its wealth of centuries-old treasures.
BBC Radio Orkney/FacebookThe carved stone head was discovered during excavation of a medieval building at Skaill Farm in Scotland’s Orkney Islands.
An archaeology student digging on Rousay in Scotland’s Orkney Islands recently discovered a carved stone head that dates back to the Viking era.
The artifact was found during an excavation at the historic Skaill Farm settlement that was conducted by the University of the Highlands and Islands. The archaeological team was uncovering the foundation of a building when the carved stone head popped out of the wall and into the hands of undergraduate student Katie Joss.
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