Hilton of Cadboll Phase II

Due to the interest created from this project Historic Scotland commissioned Kirkdale Archaeology in February 2001 to conduct an exploratory dig at the west end of St. Mary's Chapel in order to recover, if any, fragments of the original sculpture theoretically left discarded during that awful act of vandalism by the 'barbarous mason' of 1676.

A wealth of carved fragments were found from the previously unknown Cross face of the slab, some of which are shown below.

Serpent creature

Key pattern with border

Robed figure

Head of a mythological beast

Perhaps though, the most surprising find was the 'missing' base of the original sculpture- something thought lost forever! A chance to see and find out so much about the sculpture of these mysterious people.

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Unfortunately this tantalizing glimpse of the base was all that could be revealed during the time of this excavation. It was not until September 2001 when the dig was opened up again by Glasgow University Archaeological Research Division (GUARD) that the stone was revealed in all its glory.

First glimpse of the intricately carved writhing beasts.

September 2001 Excavation

Knowing the existence and whereabouts of the base, GUARD opened up an area around the west end of the site to allow exploration of the relationship of the sculpture to St. Mary's Chapel and surrounding vallum. As well as the prospect of excavating the large base many other exciting finds from the sculpture came to light. For more information on this dig visit the GUARD website.

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An unusual and sinuous start to the 'vine scroll ornament

Pedestal base for the cross shaft surrounded on both sides by writhing, intertwining beasts

With all this new information (over 700 fragments and the base) sculptor, Barry Grove, will design a composition to be carved on the reconstruction to allow for its completion- it is hoped to commence with this work in the year 2002.