Orkney, located off the north coast of Scotland, boasts some of Northern Europe’s best-preserved ancient architecture. Unlike the limestone buildings found in many other parts of Northern Europe, Orkney’s structures, such as passage mounds, standing stones, houses, and workshops are predominantly made from sandstone, adding to their unique charm. The consistently damp climate of the islands has played a crucial role in preserving these ancient marvels. This article introduces these architectural wonders, providing insights into their historical significance. Whether you’re planning a visit or interested in delving into Scotland’s Northern Isles and their distinctive architectural heritage, this article serves as an accessible exploration of Orkney’s rich archaeological treasures.
Five Must-See Wonders of Orkney’s Architectural Heritage
If you love history, and architecture, or simply enjoy beautiful landscapes rich with cultural history, Orkney’s incredible structures will truly captivate you.
1. Skara Brae: The Neolithic Village
Skara Brae is a Neolithic settlement located on the Bay of Skaill, on the west coast of Mainland, the largest island in Scotland’s Orkney archipelago. This ancient village, dating from around 3180 BC to about 2500 BC, consists of ten closely clustered houses made from flagstones, supported by earthen dams. Each house features stone hearths, beds, and cupboards, as well as an early form of sanitation with toilets and drains designed to flush waste out to the sea.
Skara Brae is renowned as Europe’s most complete Neolithic village and holds UNESCO World Heritage Site status as part of “The Heart of Neolithic Orkney,” along with three other sites. Skara Brae was discovered by chance when a powerful storm revealed its long-hidden secrets. The site is exceptionally well-preserved, with stone walls, beds, dressers, and even remnants of ancient games still intact. This offers a vivid glimpse into prehistoric life.
2. Maeshowe: The Majestic Tomb
Maeshowe is a Neolithic chambered cairn and passage grave located on Mainland Orkney, Scotland, likely built around 2800 BC. It is an outstanding example of ancient craftsmanship, so impressive that archaeologist Stuart Piggott described it as “a superlative monument” with unique execution. Maeshowe has given its name to a specific type of chambered cairn found only in Orkney.
Maeshowe is a scheduled monument as part of the “Heart of Neolithic Orkney,” along with sites like Skara Brae, Maeshowe was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1999. Its significance is further enhanced by the Viking runes carved into its walls in the 12th century, offering a fascinating insight into the Norsemen who later inhabited the area. The blend of Neolithic and Viking heritage makes Maeshowe a truly unique archaeological treasure.
3. St. Magnus Cathedral: Light in the North:
This beautiful stone cathedral, made of red and yellow sandstone, has been the heart of Orkney for nearly 900 years. Founded by Earl Rognvald in honor of his uncle, St. Magnus, its construction began in 1137 and took over 300 years to complete, resulting in a mix of Romanesque and Gothic styles. The cathedral’s impressive structure, with its tall spires and intricate details, is truly captivating. Inside, you’ll find stunning stained glass windows, intricately carved stone arches, and a peaceful atmosphere that invites quiet reflection. Every part of the cathedral, from the grand nave to the ornate choir stalls, showcases exceptional craftsmanship. It’s not just a place of worship but a testament to Orkney’s rich history and cultural heritage.
Throughout its long history, St. Magnus Cathedral has served various unusual purposes. It has been used to dry Viking sails, imprison accused witches and other criminals, and even host Cromwell’s troops. It has witnessed countless weddings, funerals, and burials. Whether you want to admire an awe-inspiring building, delve into centuries of history, or simply sit quietly in this serene and sacred space, St. Magnus Cathedral offers a unique and enriching experience.
4. The Italian Chapel: A Symbol of Hope
The Italian Chapel is one of the most powerful symbols of hope and peace to emerge from World War II.
The chapel was built by Italian prisoners of war who were transported from the heat of the North African desert to the cold of Orkney in early 1942. Around 500 of them were sent to Camp 60 on the small island of Lamb Holm to work on the Churchill Barriers, which were constructed to seal the eastern entrances to Scapa Flow, the harbor of the British Home Fleet.
The Italian Chapel is not just an architectural marvel but a profound testament to the human spirit. It is a place where art and faith triumphed over the bleakness of war, leaving behind a lasting legacy of beauty and hope.
5. The Standing Stones of Stenness: Ancient Monoliths:
The Standing Stones of Stenness are incredible ancient megaliths located at the start of the Brodgar peninsula, surrounded by other historic sites. These towering stones, some reaching up to 19 feet high, form one of the oldest stone circles in Britain and are enveloped in mystery and legend. While their exact purpose remains uncertain, they were likely used for ceremonial or astronomical purposes.
Originally, the stone circle consisted of twelve stones centered around a large hearth. Although only four stones remain standing today, you can still appreciate the scale and significance of this ancient site. The Standing Stones of Stenness could be the oldest stone circle in the British Isles.
Part of the Heart of Neolithic Orkney UNESCO World Heritage Site, this stone circle is a key element of the ceremonial landscape. Nearby, you can visit the Barnhouse settlement, a stone-age village on the banks of the Harray Loch.
Walking among these ancient stones, you can’t help but feel a connection to the people who erected them thousands of years ago. They stand as a powerful reminder of Orkney’s rich history and its importance in the prehistoric world.
Orkney’s architectural heritage is a journey through time, revealing layers of history from the Neolithic era to the Viking Age and beyond. Each of these five wonders, Skara Brae, Maeshowe, St. Magnus Cathedral, the Italian Chapel, and the Standing Stones of Stenness offers a unique window into the past, showcasing the ingenuity and spirit of the people who created them.
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