Just three weeks ago we were walking through a field, ankle deep in sheep droppings in some places, so see some standing stones. These stones are ancient. More ancient than one can comprehend for someone that was born in a country that is barely over 200 years old. In Kilmartin there are more than 350 ancient monuments within a six mile radius of the village, with 150 of them being prehistoric. These stones were put in place in 3,000BC.
Within Kilmartin Parish Church graveyard there are the Kilmartin crosses, one 9th-10th century, the other late medieval in date. The 9th CENTURY!!! I find this amazing. I got goosebumps just touching the carvings. Many are marked by figures of warriors in contemporary dress with spears and swords, along with foliage, figures of animals, and interlacing patterns.
I walked through Carnasserie Castle (built in the 16th century), thinking about all the history those stones witnessed. The coat of arms of the 5th Earl of Argyll is still visible above the front entrance, with the motto DIA LE UA NDUIBHNE, "God be with O'Duine." The castle is 5 storeys. I climbed the stairwell to the top. What an amazing view. I thought about the people that stood where I did - only 500 years earlier. No one is there any longer. No caretakers. The moss and lichens are claiming their place amongst the stones.
What I noticed most is that lack of true understanding of the history these people have in their backyards. Many I spoke to didn't care and didn't understand why I did. To them it's just another pile of rocks. Perhaps if they were born in a country without a long history they may understand.
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