PRE-ORDER The Archaeology of Finlaggan, Islay

Please note that this book is forthcoming and therefore any pre-order will not be posted until after the publication date of 17th September 2025

Finlaggan on Islay has long been recognised as an important medieval site; the centre from which the MacDonald Lords of the Isles exercised control and patronage over large areas of Scotland. This major archaeological project undertaken from 1989 to 1998 led to a better understanding of how the Lords of the Isles created a Gaelic state and how Finlaggan contributed to the culture and heritage of Scotland. The excavations also uncovered evidence of prehistoric occupation and ritual, lead mining, and post-medieval settlement including a fort.

In addition to the excavation results, this book reviews all available historical documentation to place Finlaggan in its local West Highland setting as well as a wider British and Irish context. Richly illustrated with photographs and plans of the excavation sites, the book discusses Finlaggan as a castle, palace and administrative hub. The volume is supplemented by an online catalogue of artefacts and environmental material that provides a wealth of information on the inhabitants, their pastimes, their activites and their quality of life.

Dr David Caldwell was employed by National Museums Scotland from 1973 to 2012 in various curatorial and management roles. He directed fieldwork and excavations at Finlaggan on behalf of the National Museums from 1989 to 1998. In 1971, David was elected as a Fellow of the Society and he served as the Society's President from 2014 to 2020.

The Society of Antiquaries of Scotland gratefully acknowledges funding towards the publication of this volume from Historic Environment Scotland, National Museums Scotland, the Marc Fitch Fund, the Hunter Archaeological and Historical Trust and Finlaggan Single Malt Whisky.