Reilig Òdhrain / Isle of Iona ***

Region: Argyll & The Isles

In this region: <<<<<  >>>>>

Description:

Reilig Òdhrain was named after one of St. Columba's followers, Odhráin or Oran, who according to legend volunteered to be buried alive as a sacrifice to prevent the walls of the first church built here from falling down. Many believe Reilig Òdhrain has been in continuous use as a graveyard since Columba's day. It became the traditional burial place for the Kings of Dál Riata and Scotland for many centuries. A survey conducted in 1549 listed 48 Dalriadan/Scottish kings buried here, as well as eight Norwegian and four Irish kings.