The Knap of Howar is an archaeological site located on the island of Papa Westray in Orkney, Scotland. It is one of the oldest preserved stone-built houses in northern Europe, dating back to the Neolithic period. The site consists of two well-preserved structures and provides valuable insights into the lives of early agricultural communities.

Key features and information about the Knap of Howar:

1. Construction Date:
   • The Knap of Howar was built around 3700–3500 BCE, making it over 5,000 years old. It belongs to the Neolithic period and predates famous sites like Stonehenge.
2. Structures:
   • The site consists of two parallel rectangular structures, labeled as “House 1” and “House 2.” Both structures were likely used for domestic purposes.
3. Construction Materials:
   • The houses were constructed using locally available stone. The walls of the structures were built with vertically set flat stones, creating sturdy and well-insulated walls.
4. Layout:
   • Each house has a central passageway with smaller rooms on either side. The layout is relatively simple but functional, featuring hearths for cooking and storage areas.
5. Entrances:
   • The entrances to the houses are designed with passages that face southwest, possibly to take advantage of sunlight and prevailing winds.
6. Function:
   • The Knap of Howar is believed to have served as a residential dwelling for a small agricultural community. The presence of storage rooms suggests that the inhabitants engaged in farming and stored surplus food.
7. Age and Preservation:
   • The Knap of Howar is remarkable for its age and state of preservation. The Orkney Islands’ soil and climate have contributed to the preservation of organic materials such as wood and thatch.
8. Discovery and Excavation:
   • The site was discovered in the 1930s by local farmer William Traill. Excavations were conducted by archaeologist Vere Gordon Childe, and the findings provided important insights into Neolithic architecture and daily life.
9. Artifacts:
   • Excavations at the Knap of Howar revealed a variety of artifacts, including stone tools, pottery, and animal bones. These artifacts help researchers understand the lifestyle, diet, and technologies of the Neolithic inhabitants.
10. Neolithic Orkney:
    • The Knap of Howar is part of the broader Neolithic landscape of Orkney, which includes other notable sites such as Skara Brae, Maeshowe, and the Ring of Brodgar. Together, these sites contribute to a UNESCO World Heritage Site known as the “Heart of Neolithic Orkney.”
11. Public Access:
    • The Knap of Howar is open to the public, and visitors can explore the site to gain a firsthand understanding of Neolithic architecture and domestic life.

The Knap of Howar is a significant archaeological site that provides a glimpse into the daily lives of early farmers in northern Europe. Its age, state of preservation, and contribution to our understanding of Neolithic communities make it a key site in the study of prehistoric Europe.