Prehistoric and Roman Archaeology
Our Prehistoric and Roman Archaeology collections include archaeological collections from the first human settlement of Europe during the Palaeolithic up to the end of the Roman period.
Over this vast time-frame and sizeable collection, our focus is on Scotland set within a European context. Highlights include the finds from the famous Neolithic village of Skara Brae on Orkney, a wealth of Bronze Age gold jewellery, the fabulous pony cap from Torrs decorated with Celtic art, and rich remains of the Roman occupation of Scotland such as magnificent helmets with face masks. Our wide-ranging research includes the material culture of prehistory, the puzzling habit of hoarding valued items, the effect of culture contacts such as the Roman invasion, and the history of archaeology.
The section also houses the museum’s commercial post-excavation service, providing specialist analysis and reporting of artefacts found on excavations across Scotland and beyond.
Meet the team
Prehistoric and Roman Archaeology stories
The Romans in Scotland
Archaeology, History and cultures, Scotland
Many people think that Hadrian’s Wall marks the limit of the Roman Empire, but the Roman world stretched much further north than that. For almost 400 years, much of what is now Scotland was either inside the empire or an uncomfortably…
10 Roman objects found in the Scottish Borders
Archaeology, History and cultures, Scotland
These objects found in the Scottish Borders, mainly from the Roman fort of Trimontium (modern Newstead), help paint a picture of the Romans in Scotland. Over 200 items, including these highlights, are on loan to the Trimontium Trust. Their…
The Carnoustie Hoard: A rare glimpse into Bronze Age customs
Archaeology, Scotland
In 2016 a Bronze Age hoard was discovered in Carnoustie, Angus. The site also showed evidence of a Neolithic feat hall. These objects give us clues about who lived in this area thousands of years ago.