Iona

Throughout Scottish culture and history there are icons and images that persevere to this day. Symbolism is important to many Scots, it can be seen in many facets of their lives, from Scottish jewelry which many Scots wear, to ancient symbols and places which are still looked after to this day.

The island of Iona is one such place, which holds great significance and meaning in early Scottish and Celtic history.

In 563 a monastery was founded upon the Island by St Columba, after his exile from Ireland. The mission of St Columba and his companions was to convert the largely pagan inhabitants of what is now Scotland, to Christianity. Iona came to be known as a place of great learning and Christianity. Furthermore it came to be counted as a Holy island.

Physically, Iona is an island one mile of the coast of Mull. It is relatively small in size stretching only one mile in width and three and a half in length. Currently the village on Iona has a population of about 170 to 180 people. This number has dropped over time, with the population being as high as 247 in 1891. Although, the temporary population is much greater on Iona, due to the “Iona Community”. Which is a foundation catering for the people living on the island who seek to follow Celtic Christianity as that taught by St Columba.

In the peak of its importance and prominence, Iona came to be the burial ground for many kings of the Dal Riada, early Scottish Kings, along with some from Ireland and Norway. Amongst those buried there, some of the more prominent are Donald II, Malcolm I, Duncan I, King Macbeth, King Donald III and John Smith.

In the modern day, Iona stands as a reminder of Scotland’s past and ancient heritage. Many go there to fell more connected with their ancestors and connect to the Celtic history, which many Scots hold in them.