Iona Abbey, Medieval abbey on Iona Island, Scotland
Description
Iona Abbey is a medieval monastery on the island of Iona off the west coast of Scotland. The complex includes Saint Oran Chapel, a cathedral space with tall stone crosses, and a covered cloister with vaulted arcades.
History
Columba of Ireland founded the monastery in 563 with twelve companions and made it the starting point for the Christianization of Scotland. The complex was later raided several times by Vikings and rebuilt as a Benedictine abbey in the 13th century.
Culture
The name Iona likely comes from the Hebrew word for dove and connects with the island's peaceful role as a place of contemplation. Visitors encounter a living monastic community that uses the cloister and chapel for services and song.
Practical
The site is accessible year-round and reached by ferry from the Isle of Mull. The path from the ferry pier to the abbey leads through the island village and takes about 10 minutes on foot.
Did you know?
The cemetery Reilig Odhráin holds more than 60 gravestones of medieval kings from Scotland, Norway, and Ireland. The oldest stones date from the 9th century and show intertwined Celtic patterns and inscriptions.
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