In the 1500's, many lowland Scots began to migrate to the islands. These buildings at Jarlshof Ruins are typical of the style of architecture they brought with them. The complex consisted of a great hall, kitchens, barn and outhouse. Owned by the Stewart Earls of Orkney and Lords of Shetland, the residence was probably rarely used by them but rather by their steward for South Shetland.