Early People

In the early people zone you can learn about human settlement from the Stone Age to the end of the Medieval period, around 4500 B.C. to A.D. 1500.

You will find out about the vast changes within the islands during this time - including buildings, language and religion - and how islanders adapted to these environmental and cultural influences.

Themes here include: farming and home life, culture and art, religion and politics.

Highlights to look out for include:

  • Shetland knives - these beautiful knives are made of a rock found only in one place in Shetland and were so precious they were often buried with grave goods.
  • The Monk Stone – a Pictish altar, with carvings of Christian missionaries.
  • Rheingulden coin – a small coin which played a big part in Shetland’s history.