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Carn Brea

OS Ref: Here            Type: Causewayed Enclosure

Access: Good and Bad - its a large site with a road up      Disabled: In places

A very ancient place, this Carn Brea (it's not the only place with that name) is the remains of a Causewayed Enclosure. These structures are some of the earliest and were made in the early Neolithic period. Carn Brea, 2 miles south of Redruth, is considered a defensive enclosure and has remains of iron-age huts upon it, too.

There appear to be two gateways - Northern and Southern - and two summits, Western and eastern. Settlement appears to be at the eastern summit.

 

Amongst other items, many arrow heads have been found on this site which may indicate an attack, or might be dropped over time as hunted animals were bought in. As no human bones have been found, the latter theory may have some credibility. Sadly, the "might have been attacked" theory always has credibility wherever you are!

 

 

 

The enclosure is much overgrown and it is difficult to imagine what the original site may have looked like. There are nice views from the hill and a pleasant walk may be enjoyed. There are some interesting rocks like the one below, seeming to show a face:

 

Round the back was (is?) a magical little area and appears to be used presently as a shrine

Finally, here is a piccy where the moon, out whilst I was there, was in a perfect juxtaposition with some of the stones.

 

All in all, Carn Brea is well worth a visit