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Iona Abbey

Isle of Iona, Argyll

St Columba's island, where Vikings killed 68 monks on a white sand beach.

St Columba came from Ireland in 563 and founded a monastery on Iona, which spread Christianity across Scotland and northern England. The Vikings raided it in 795, 802 and 806, when 68 monks were killed on what is still called the Bay of the Martyrs.

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When
Founded 563, raided 795–806
Where
56.3340, -6.3920
Group
Castles & abbeys

Visiting

Ferry from Fionnphort on Mull. Historic Environment Scotland runs the abbey.

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