Oronsay Priory facts for kids
Oronsay Priory cloisters
|
|
 Location in Scotland
|
|
| Monastery information | |
|---|---|
| Order | Canons Regular |
| Established | 1353 |
| Disestablished | 1560 |
| Controlled churches | Christian |
| Site | |
| Location | Oronsay, Inner Hebrides, Argyll |
| Coordinates | 56°01′00″N 6°16′00″W / 56.016673°N 6.266667°W |
The Oronsay Priory was an old monastery located on the small island of Oronsay. This island is part of the Inner Hebrides, off the coast of Scotland. It was a home for a group of religious men called canons regular. The priory was built around the year 1353. Some people believe it was started by a powerful leader named John of Islay, Lord of the Isles. It was dedicated to a famous saint, Columba. We don't know a lot about the priory's daily life. This is because it was very far away from the main parts of Scotland. However, we do have some records about the leaders, known as Priors of Oronsay.
Contents
History of Oronsay Priory
The Oronsay Priory kept going until at least 1560. This year was important because it was when the Scottish Reformation happened. The last known leader of the priory was Robert Lamont. He was chosen as prior in 1555.
What Happened to the Priory's Lands?
After the priory stopped operating, its lands and property were given to other people. In 1561, they were given to Maol Choluim MacDubhthaich. Later, in 1583, King James VI of Scotland gave them to the Bishop of the Isles. This happened after James became king.
Restoration Work at the Priory
Over the years, people have worked to preserve the priory's remains. In 1883, an architect named William de B M Galloway did some restoration work. He also dug up and recorded parts of the site. More work was done in 1927 by the Ministry of Works. Today, you can still see these old ruins. They are protected as a scheduled ancient monument. Even in the 1800s, new burial places were added near the priory.
The Oronsay High Cross
Near the old church ruins, you can find a tall stone cross. It stands about four meters east of the building. The cross has a base with four steps. An inscription on the cross tells us it remembers the death of Prior Colin. He was a leader of the Oronsay monastery. The cross likely dates from 1510, the year Colin died.
What the Cross Shows
On the west side of the cross, you can see pictures of the crucifixion of Jesus. This is a very important event in Christianity. The east side of the cross shows beautiful patterns of leaves and plants.
Images for kids
-
Tombstones at Oronsay Priory. One stone shows a canon wearing his special robe.
