Experts must examine the SLOTXO impact of medieval climate change in Scotland's southern castle areas.The structure built on the Solway Firth at Caerlaverock about 800 years ago was abandoned and replaced by another inland and highland.
Environmental archaeologists will determine if the original castle was the victim of a massive coastal storm.The work will begin on Saturday, with results expected later this year and a full report in 2022. Dr Richard Tipping and Dr Eileen Tisdall from the University of Stirling will conduct the study.
The project is funded by the Castle Studies Trust with support from Historic Environment Scotland (HES).The first castle was built on the coast with a port in 1229 to guard the entrance to the Nith and Dumfries rivers and prevent British invasion.
However, when Edward I invaded in 1300, he had to besiege a new stone castle built in the land and on high ground.The site of the old castle is now "Uninhospitable wetlands," with analyzes suggesting that massive marine storms may repeatedly hit the coast.