Maiden Stack facts for kids
The Maiden Stack or Frau Stack is a tiny rock formation, called a "stack," located in the western Shetland Islands. You can find it north of Brei Holm and east of Housa Voe, near the island of Papa Stour.
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What is the Maiden Stack?
The Maiden Stack is a tall, narrow column of rock that stands alone in the sea. It was formed over many years as the sea eroded softer rock around it, leaving this harder pillar behind. It gets its name, "Maiden Stack" or "Frau Stack," because of a tiny house that once stood on its very top!
The Mystery of the House
Imagine a small house built on top of a lonely sea stack! This unusual house is part of many old stories and legends from the Shetland Islands. People have wondered for centuries why someone would build a house in such a difficult and isolated spot.
The Lord's Daughter
One popular story says that the house was built way back in the 14th century. A powerful man named Lord Þorvald Þoresson supposedly built it. His goal was to keep his daughter safe and away from all men. However, the story goes that when she eventually left the stack, she was found to be expecting a baby!
The Norwegian Lady
Another version of the legend tells of a Norwegian Lady who built the house herself. She wanted to live there to avoid unwanted attention from many suitors who wished to marry her. Getting to the house was incredibly hard, almost impossible without ropes. But a brave lover from a place called Islesburgh managed to climb up safely. After some time, the Lady was going to have a child. She then left the house, which soon fell into ruin and lost its roof.
The Fisherman's Love
A third tale suggests that a father locked his daughter away in the house. He did this because she was interested in a common fisherman, and he did not approve. But love found a way! Eventually, the lady and her sweetheart managed to escape together.
Where is the Maiden Stack?
The Maiden Stack is part of the beautiful and rugged landscape of the Shetland Islands. These islands are located far north of mainland Scotland. The stack is a landmark in the waters around Papa Stour, an island known for its dramatic cliffs and sea caves. It stands as a silent reminder of the old stories and legends of the Shetland people.
