12/08/2026
Temple Wood 🌙🌳
Many of you will recognise this one! This widely loved ancient site is located within the rich archaeological landscape of Kilmartin Glen in Argyll, Scotland.
Sometimes referred to as "Half Moon Wood", this particular part of the ancient site contains two stone circles: one to the south and one to the north. The southern circle is the larger of the two, measuring 40 feet in diameter and containing a burial cist at its centre. The smaller northern circle measures 10 feet in diameter and has a central standing stone rather than a cist.
Excavation and research at the site show that it was in use for around 2,000 years. It was likely established between 3500 and 3000 BC and formed part of the wider ceremonial landscape of the glen before burials began there around 2000 BC. The first burials consisted of two small cists located outside the southern circle.
During an early phase of the monument, 22 standing stones were erected to the southwest of the larger circle, one of which bears a spiral motif. This spiral closely resembles those found in Irish passage graves, suggesting there may have been cultural connections or shared artistic traditions between Kilmartin Glen and communities in Ireland. While the exact nature of this relationship remains uncertain, it highlights the possibility of contact or shared beliefs across the Irish Sea during the Neolithic.
Despite the numerous burials at Temple Wood, the only human remains recovered from the site are a single child's tooth.
Like many of the monuments in the area, Temple Wood is in the care of Historic Environment Scotland.
Want to explore more of the history Kilmartin Glen? Visit Kilmartin Museum for more about this incredible site.
📷 - Aaron Watson / Monumental
