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Shetland, or Zetland, is an archipelago of 100 islands located to the northeast of Scotland. The economy is largely based on fishing, oil and ranching. Visitors arrive to the islands via the airport in Sumburgh, Mainland or by the extensive ferry transportation system. Lerwick is the capital of Shetland and contains the 18th century Fort Charlotte, around which the town was built. The islands have been inhabited for thousands of years as evidenced by numerous archaeological and historical sites, including Jarlshof.
Situated along the southern tip of Shetland Mainland, the large Jarlshof site contains artefacts and structures of civilization built on top of civilization dating from the Bronze Age to medieval times. Old Scatness, located on the southern Mainland, is another destination to witness living history. Both areas house ancient brochs, wheelhouses and roundhouses, in addition to exhibits representing the lifestyles and cultures of the various peoples.
On the eastern corner of the most northerly island of Unst, lies the remains of Muness Castle. Construction began on the Z-shaped structure in the late 16th century for Laurence Bruce, an immigrant nobleman, who became sheriff of Shetland. Only two of the once three storied walls remain, along with the diagonally opposing towers. A family crest and poem adorn the entrance and a medieval kitchen, stone fireplaces, passageways, staircases, and great hall are some of the structures found inside.
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