Photo by @jimrichardsonng | Once again the Ness of Brodgar in Orkney will be swarming with archaeologists digging into the story of what motivated the Neolithic people of 5,000 years ago to build this incredible complex of buildings in these remote North Sea islands. Built to impress, these structures are much bigger than other houses of the era, leading to speculation that this was a community spiritual center of some sort. That idea is reinforced by the ceremonial offerings archaeologist Nick Card and his team find here. This beautiful polished stone axe (discovered by one of the student diggers) is an example. (She was the first person to touch it in 5,000 years—and was she ever excited!) This year the dig season runs until August 17 and can be visited. (I wish I were there.) For more Scotland, follow me @jimRichardsonNG. #scotland #Neolithic #orkney #stoneage #ruins