Names and Origins

The names "Barabhas" and "Brù" originated during the centuries of Scandinavian occupation and settlement in the area. "Brù" is believed to mean bridge but the meaning of "Barabhas" is not known, either in its Gaelic or English form.

There is significant archaeological evidence of human habitation in the area in the form of graves and burial chambers dating back over 2000 years. Small scale excavations by professional archaeologists have taken place over the past 50 years, all of which have confirmed that there is still much more to learn about the area’s history!

Wind and weather erosion on Barvas machair clearly reveals buried evidence of the area’s historical past
Wind and weather erosion on Barvas machair clearly reveals buried evidence of the area’s historical past


The group on the brink of a significant discovery during the August 2000 dig on Barvas machair
The group on the brink of a significant discovery during the August 2000 dig on Barvas machair




1500 year old pot freshly excavated from Barvas machair in 2001
1500 year old pot freshly excavated from Barvas machair in 2001
Group of professional archaeologists assisted by local Comann Eachdraidh members during an exploratory dig on Barvas machair in August 2000
Group of professional archaeologists assisted by local Comann Eachdraidh members during an exploratory dig on Barvas machair in August 2000

2000 year-old bracelet found during the August 2000 dig on Barvas machair
2000 year-old bracelet found during the August 2000 dig on Barvas machair


in 2001, after examination and cleaning by Museum nan Eilean staff
1500 year old pot excavated from Barvas machair in 2001, after examination and cleaning by Museum nan Eilean staff