BITS ‘N’ PIECES

Narrated by Asma (R.A)

Allah’s Apostle (S.A.W) said, “Give (in charity) and do not give reluctantly lest Allah should give you in a limited amount; and do not withhold your money lest Allah should withhold it from you.”

Sahih Bukhari, Volume 3, Book 47, Number 764

DID YOU KNOW?

Crannogs are artificial islands built in lakes, rivers, and estuaries commonly found in Scotland, Ireland, and Wales.

Crannogs date back to prehistoric times, with the earliest crannogs appearing around 5,000 years ago. The construction of a crannog involved driving wooden piles into the bed of a lake or river to create a platform, which was then filled with stones, earth, and timber. This foundation supported wooden structures such as roundhouses, which served as dwellings. The materials and methods used varied depending on the available resources and the specific needs of the inhabitants. In some cases, crannogs were built using natural islands or mounds as a base, enhancing them with artificial construction.

Crannogs served multiple purposes, reflecting their strategic and practical significance. One primary function was defense. The isolation provided by water barriers made crannogs difficult to attack, offering protection from potential invaders and wild animals. Access to these islands was typically limited to narrow causeways or wooden bridges, further enhancing their defensive capabilities.

In addition to defense, crannogs were centers of habitation and agriculture. The surrounding waters provided a natural moat, ensuring a reliable supply of fish and other aquatic resources. The fertile land around crannogs was often used for farming, while the elevated position offered a vantage point for monitoring the surrounding area. This combination of agricultural and defensive advantages made crannogs attractive sites for long-term settlement.

Crannogs were often associated with high-status individuals or families, serving as residences for chieftains and local leaders. The construction and maintenance of these islands required substantial communal effort, reflecting the cooperative nature of early societies. Archaeological excavations have revealed a wealth of artifacts from crannog sites, including pottery, tools, and jewelry, providing valuable insights into the daily lives and cultural practices of their inhabitants.

Several crannog sites have been reconstructed for educational and tourism purposes, allowing visitors to experience these unique structures firsthand. As symbols of human ingenuity and adaptability, crannogs remain a testament to the resourcefulness of our ancestors in creating sustainable and defensible living environments in challenging landscapes.