St Magnus Church

St Magnus Church on Egilsay is a 12th century church ruin featuring a rectangular nave, a chancel at the east end, and a distinctive round tower at the west end. The site stands on Egilsay island in Orkney and is now a protected monument.

The church was built in the 12th century and is connected to the death of Earl Magnus Erlendsson, who died in 1116 near this location during a conflict with Earl Hakon over Orkney's control. The site became a memorial place for this significant historical figure.

The round tower shows architectural links to similar structures found in northern regions around the North Sea, reflecting Norse building traditions. This style was common in medieval Scandinavian territories and their trade networks.

The site is only accessible by ferry service from Tingwall on the Orkney Mainland to Egilsay island. The ruins are in the open air, so visitors should wear weather-appropriate clothing as the island faces Atlantic wind exposure.

The round tower originally stood at about 20 meters high and contained five separate floors connected by internal staircases. This multi-story construction was unusual for church towers of that era and may have served as a defensive structure or refuge.

Location: Orkney Islands

Location: Rousay and Egilsay

Inception: 12 century

GPS coordinates: 59.15692,-2.93523

Latest update: December 12, 2025 17:46