Iona Abbey, Scotland

The Spiritual Centre of Scotland.

(Further to the Webmaster's interest in
Stirling Stonework Design)

These photographs were taken by the Webmaster on a day trip in Spring 2003 to Iona Abbey, and nearby.  Of interest was the pyramid or diamond design of the stonework feature and should be read with regard to the other webpage regarding the very speculative tale of a possible link to my STIRLING (or SKIRLING) ancestors.
If YOU can supply any more on the subject of this stonework design the Webmaster would appreciate such information.

 

PLEASE BE PATIENT.
There are many photographs on this page, all of which can be ENLARGED to 1600 pixels on their longest edge, from the size you see by using the appropriate means at your disposal.
Should you wish higher resolution versions, possibly for publication, please advise the Webmaster.

   

The photographs can be seen at a larger scale if your browser can use zoom (Internet Explorer users of v.5 and above may wish to download this Microsoft file.)

 


Leaving the Scottish mainland.

View from the Ferry to Mull.
On board the Ferry to Mull.
On board the Ferry to Mull.
View from the Ferry to Mull.
On board the Ferry to Mull.
On board the Ferry to Mull.
View from the Ferry to Mull.
On board the Ferry to Mull.
On board the Ferry to Mull.
Waiting on Mull for the ferry to Iona.
About to board the ferry to Iona.
View from the Ferry to Iona - The Abbey can just be seen left of centre
Sailing to Iona.
Sailing to Iona - The Abbey and grounds to the right.
Sailing to Iona - The Abbey and grounds to the left of centre.
The ferry returns to Mull.
Link to Historic Scotland website.

Iona Abbey, surrounding buildings and items of historic interest are managed by Historic Scotland on behalf of the people of Scotland.
Note the carved stonework on this archway at the entrance to Saint Oran's Chapel near to the Abbey, and likely originally built around 1164.  This design is referred to as 'dogtooth' in the handbook, but see my comments below....
Taking a closer look.
Inside Iona Abbey
These arches where examples of the old stonework can be seen.  The cleaner stone is mostly of a comparatively modern restoration.  Iona Abbey has been extensively restored to as near as possible its original condition, but as the guidebook explains, the building was under continual change and rebuilding as its use increased. 
As above...
As above.  Closer inspection of the design shows a difference from that which I refer to as Diamond and as can be seen in the background of this webpage.  This is likely to be that described as Dogtooth, and a variation of the pyramid or Diamond shape which I refer to, here and elsewhere on this website.  The Dogtooth design can best be described as that of taking a 'soft' version of the Pyramid design and squeezing inwards on the four facets - 
  changing  Diamond or Pyramid shape carving  to    Dogtooth shape carving at Iona Abbey
The Dogtooth design can sometimes be seen elongated, rather than square. 
One of several of the gravestones taken from the burial site nearby, restored, and now placed in the sheltered area of Iona Abbey cloister.  These are mostly of Scottish Kings, Lords of the Isles and persons of great Scottish importance.
In Iona Abbey graveyard is the burial place of John Smith, late Member of the United Kingdom Parliament and Leader of the Labour Party - a 'weel-liked man' who died in 1994.

 

I would advise that you purchase the guidebook to Iona Abbey Abbey and surroundings from Historic Scotland BEFORE your visit, if possible, although there are many other books are available.

Read other STIRLING LINKS or about other carvings.

Read HERE about the Masons' Marks and other very detailed information about medieval buildings.

To be continued.....

CLICK HERE FOR THE MONIKIE WEBSITE