50 Facts About IONA

Iona's Location and Geography

Iona is a small island with a big story. Its geographical features and location have played a significant role in its history and culture.

1. Location: Iona is situated in the Inner Hebrides, approximately 2 kilometers (1 mile) from the coast of Mull, Scotland.
2. Name Origin: The name "Iona" is derived from the Gaelic Ì Chaluim Chille, meaning "Iona of (Saint) Columba".
3. Size: The island is about 3 miles (5 km) long and 1.5 miles (2.4 km) wide.
4. Highest Point: The highest point on Iona is Dùn Ì, an Iron Age hill fort standing at 101 meters (331 feet) above sea level.
5. Geographical Features: The island includes notable geographical features such as the Bay at the Back of the Ocean and Càrn Cùl ri Éirinn (the Hill/Cairn of [turning the] Back to Ireland).

Population and Ownership

Despite its small size, Iona has a vibrant community and unique ownership history.

6. Population: As of 2019, Iona's estimated population was 120 residents.
7. Ownership: The main island and its off-lying islands were donated to the National Trust for Scotland by the Hugh Fraser Foundation in 1980.
8. Abbey Ownership: The abbey and some church buildings are owned by the Iona Cathedral Trust.

Historical Significance

Iona's history is rich and deeply intertwined with the spread of Christianity in Scotland.

9. Historical Significance: Iona is known as the birthplace of Celtic Christianity in Scotland, with St. Columba establishing the abbey in AD 563.
10. St. Columba’s Arrival: Columba and 12 companions sailed from Ireland to establish the monastery on Iona.
11. Monastery Importance: The monastery founded by Columba was one of the most important and influential in the British Isles, sending missionaries to convert people to Christianity.
12. Pilgrimage Site: Iona has been an important place of pilgrimage throughout history, attracting visitors seeking the blessing of St. Columba.

Architectural and Artistic Heritage

Iona's buildings and art have left a lasting legacy.

13. Architectural Features: The church and abbey were laid out to receive and direct pilgrims, with features like harling (covering in thick white render) to make them visible from a distance.
14. Crosses: Four tall, intricately carved crosses dating from the 8th and 9th centuries once stood near the abbey, with three now in the Abbey Museum and one still in place.
15. Artistic Centre: Iona was a leading artistic centre from the 8th century, with sculptors, metalworkers, and manuscript illuminators flourishing there.

Burial Grounds and Archaeology

The island's burial grounds and archaeological sites offer a glimpse into its storied past.

16. Reilig Odhráin: The small graveyard of Reilig Odhráin is the final resting place of local clan chieftains and ‘Kings of the Isles’, used as a graveyard into recent times.
17. Archaeological Landscape: Iona is a rich archaeological landscape, with much of the early monastery potentially surviving beneath the upstanding remains.
18. St. Columba’s Shrine: The St. Columba’s Shrine, a small stone building beside the door to the abbey church, may date from the 9th or 10th century.

Viking Raids and Relics

Iona faced numerous challenges, including Viking raids, but its spiritual significance endured.

19. Viking Raids: Viking raids blighted the coasts of the British Isles, and raids on Columba’s monastery were frequent occurrences.
20. Relics Transfer: Early in the 9th century, some of St. Columba’s relics were taken for safekeeping to Dunkeld in Perthshire and Kells in Ireland.
21. Book of Kells: The famous Book of Kells, now on display in Dublin, was probably made on Iona.

Celtic Christianity and Monastic System

Iona played a crucial role in the spread of Celtic Christianity and the establishment of monastic systems.

22. Celtic Christianity: Iona was a major supporter of the Celtic system for calculating the date of Easter during the Easter controversy.
23. Monastic System: Iona became the centre of one of the most important monastic systems in Great Britain and Ireland, with many satellite institutions founded.
24. Conversion Efforts: The monastery played a role in the conversion to Christianity of the Picts and Gaels of present-day Scotland in the late 6th century and the Anglo-Saxon kingdom of Northumbria in 635.
25. Satellite Institutions: Many satellite institutions were founded, including monasteries and churches, spreading Christianity throughout Scotland and beyond.

Scriptorium and Norse Invasions

The island's scriptorium and its resilience during Norse invasions highlight its historical importance.

26. Scriptorium: Iona’s scriptorium produced highly important documents, including the original texts of the Iona Chronicle, thought to be the source for early Irish annals.
27. Celtic Traditions: Iona was associated with distinctive practices and traditions known as Celtic Christianity, which included unique liturgical and theological practices.
28. Norse Invasions: During the period from 795 to the late 10th century, the pagan Norsemen repeatedly invaded the island, burning down the original monastery and murdering the monks.
29. Relic Transfer (849): In 849, the relics of St. Columba were transferred to Kells in Ireland for safekeeping due to the island's insecurity.

Rebuilding and Holy Place

Despite invasions, Iona's spiritual significance remained strong, leading to its rebuilding.

30. Rebuilding: By the 11th century, the monastery had been rebuilt, and it was included in the Norsemen’s diocese of Man and the Isles.
31. Archbishop of Trondheim: In 1154, this see was put under the archbishop of Trondheim, Norway, and it retained this status until 1266 when the Hebrides were ceded to Scotland.
32. Holy Place: Despite centuries of invasion and warfare, Iona’s reputation as a holy place flourished, becoming the burial place of Scottish, Irish, and Norwegian kings.

Protestant Reformation and Modern-Day Iona

The island's history continued to evolve through the Protestant Reformation and into modern times.

33. Protestant Reformation: The monastery was suppressed after the Protestant Reformation, and in 1693, the island passed into the overlordship of the Campbells of Argyll.
34. Church of Scotland: In 1899, the 8th duke of Argyll presented the ruined abbey to the Church of Scotland, which gradually rebuilt it for public worship.
35. Iona Community: In 1938, George MacLeod, a Glasgow minister, founded the Iona Community, which continues to play a significant role in Iona’s spiritual life.
36. Modern-Day Iona: Today, Iona is a tourist destination and a place for spiritual retreats, attracting visitors from around the world.

Economy and Accessibility

The island's economy and accessibility have shaped its development and appeal.

37. Tourism and Crofting: Tourism and crofting (small-scale farming) are the main economic activities on the island, with sheep and cattle raised on the rough grazing land.
38. Accessibility: Iona was readily accessible by sea from Ireland, facilitating its role in the early Christianization of Scotland.

St. Columba’s Legacy

St. Columba's influence remains a cornerstone of Iona's identity.

39. St. Columba’s Burial: St. Columba died in 597 and was buried on the island, where his relics remain significant to this day.
40. Cultural Significance: Iona’s cultural significance extends beyond its historical importance, with its natural environment and tranquility making it a unique destination for spiritual seekers.

Preservation and Community Life

Efforts to preserve Iona's heritage and foster community life continue to this day.

41. Architectural Preservation: Efforts have been made to preserve the island’s architectural heritage, including the restoration of the abbey and other historical buildings.
42. Community Life: The Iona Community continues to play a vital role in the island’s community life, fostering a sense of spirituality and connection among its residents and visitors.

Education and Research

Iona's influence extends to education and research, both locally and internationally.

43. Education and Research: Iona is also a site for educational and research activities, with institutions like the Iona University in New York offering programs related to Celtic studies and spirituality.
44. Iona University: Established in 1940 as a Catholic university, Iona University in New York offers a range of academic programs and is known for its commitment to community service and innovative learning.
45. Student Body: The university has a diverse student body with students from 43 countries and 38 states and territories represented, emphasizing its global reach and inclusivity.
46. Academic Programs: Iona University offers nearly 40 undergraduate degree programs and over 50 graduate programs across various disciplines, including arts, sciences, business, and health sciences.
47. Student Life: The university provides a range of extracurricular activities, including more than 80 clubs and organizations, 10 club sports teams, and an expanded performing arts program.
48. Athletics: Iona University is an NCAA Division I program with 24 varsity teams, renowned for its men’s basketball and men’s cross-country teams.
49. Rankings and Recognition: Iona University is ranked #66 nationwide and #1 in New York for student experience, reflecting its commitment to providing a high-quality educational experience.
50. Legacy and Heritage: Iona University celebrates a legacy spanning 1500 years, emphasizing its rich heritage of service and the transformative power of an Iona education.

Iona's Timeless Allure

Iona's rich history and cultural significance make it a unique destination. From its role in the spread of Celtic Christianity to its stunning landscapes, Iona offers a blend of spirituality and natural beauty. The abbey, ancient crosses, and Reilig Odhráin graveyard tell tales of a bygone era, while the Iona Community continues to foster a sense of connection and spirituality. Modern visitors can enjoy the island's tranquility, archaeological sites, and educational opportunities. Whether you're interested in history, spiritual retreats, or simply exploring a beautiful island, Iona has something to offer. Its legacy and heritage continue to inspire and captivate, making it a must-visit for anyone seeking a deeper understanding of Scotland's past and present. So, pack your bags and experience the timeless allure of Iona for yourself.