Isle of Iona

Fàilte gu Eileanan Mhuile agus Ì Chaluim Chille

Iona is known throughout the Christian world and is now a major centre for pilgrimage. To get back to this page click

One of Scotland's most historic and venerated sites, lona Abbey is a celebrated Christian centre and the burial place of early Scottish kings.

The Abbey and Nunnery grounds house one of the most comprehensive collections of Christian carved stones in Scotland, ranging in age from 600AD to the 1600s.
In AD 563 Columba and his twelve disciples landed at Port na Curaich (Harbour of the Coracle) to build a monastery and establish a school of learning, having travelled in a hide-covered craft from Ireland. They introduced a faith which was to spread far beyond Mull and indeed Scotland itself.

Iona, only 3 miles (4.8 km) from north to south and 1½ miles (2.4 km) east to west is steeped in history

For centuries people have been visiting Iona. This picture (below) from an early 20th century postcard shows a party landing on the slipway. Modern visitors use the ferry run by Caledonian MacBrayne which leaves from Fionnphort on Mull.

Note that cars are not permitted on Iona.

Click here for a"Virtual Tour" of Mull, Iona and Ulva

As well as its religious importance, the island is home to a thriving local community consisting of residential properties, shops, crofts, farms, hotels and restaurants. Iona has wonderful sandy beaches, a golf course (free), an old marble quarry, interesting walks and wildlife and genuine Hebridean tranquility.

The tradition of worship at the Abbey continues through daily services and teaching. Visitors are welcome to join services. For service times please contact 01681 700404, or check at the Abbey entrance where daily times are posted.

Go to the Holiday Mull website for more information on Mull

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