Tor cairn facts for kids
A tor cairn is a special ancient site found in the British Isles. These places are mostly in Cornwall and Devon in England, but also in Wales. A tor cairn is a circular area made of stones or a platform of loose rocks. It is built around a natural rock hill, called a tor. Sometimes, there is also a ditch around it.
There are about 35 known tor cairns. They can be from 12 to over 30 metres wide. Their height ranges from about half a metre to 4 metres tall. Usually, there is an opening to enter the stone area. You might also find pits in the ground between the main rock hill (the tor) and the stone circle.
What is a Tor Cairn?
A tor cairn is like an ancient monument built around a natural hill. Imagine a big pile of rocks forming a circle or a flat area. This structure surrounds a natural rocky outcrop, which is a hill with exposed rocks. People built these places a very long time ago.
These sites were likely used for special ceremonies or gatherings. They are not just random piles of stones. They show how ancient people interacted with the natural landscape.
When Were Tor Cairns Built?
Scientists have found tools and other items at these sites. These include flint tools, pieces of pottery, and even bronze weapons and jewelry. By studying these finds, experts can tell how old the tor cairns are.
They were built around 2000 B.C. This time period is known as the early Bronze Age. This means they are over 4,000 years old!
Where Can You Find Tor Cairns?
Tor cairns are mostly found in the southwest of England and in Wales. They are often on high ground or hills. Some well-known examples include:
- Alex Tor
- Catshole Tor
- Corndon Tor
- Cox Tor
- Hameldown Tor
- Limsboro Cairn
- White Tor (near Peter Tavy)
- Rough Tor
- Tolborough Tor
- Top Tor
- Tregarrick Tor
- Yes Tor
These sites help us learn about the people who lived in Britain thousands of years ago. They are important clues to understanding ancient history.
