Archaeologists discover ancient sea fort in Scotland

A team of archaeologists had to scale a sea stack — a feat so arduous they had to take along a climbing guide — for their latest excavation, but it was worth it.

The University of Aberdeen team found a fort in a remote part of Scotland, off Aberdeenshire's coast, that had never been excavated. They believe the fort belonged to the Picts, an ancient group of people who lived in northern and central Scotland.

At the fort site, the archaeologists discovered the remnants of a house and a fireplace. Dr. Gordon Noble, the team's lead archaeologist, told BBC News that the home's hearth was surprisingly well-made, as was the home's floor.

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The team believes there could be more forts on Stonehaven's coast, much of which hasn't been explored. In the 19th century, local residents reportedly found six stones with Pictish symbols on them, but the ancient ruins were unknown until now.

Noble believes the fort may have been a "precursor" to Dunnotter Castle, which is about a quarter mile away from the site. The archaeologists are continuing the excavation for the rest of this week.