Sound of Islay facts for kids
The Sound of Islay is a narrow stretch of water in Scotland. It lies between two islands, Islay and Jura. These islands are off the west coast of Scotland.
The Sound of Islay is about 30 kilometers (19 miles) long. It has a few small islands within it. These islands include Am Fraoch Eilean, Brosdale Island, and Glas Eilean. They are all near the southeast coast of Jura. This area is very beautiful. It is part of Scotland's 40 National Scenic Areas.
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History of the Sound of Islay
Claig Castle: A Medieval Stronghold
One of the islands in the Sound is Am Fraoch Eilean. Its name means "heather isle." On this island, you can find the old ruins of Claig Castle. This castle was built a long time ago, in 1154.
A powerful leader named Somerled built it. He wanted to protect the Sound of Islay. Later, the castle was even used as a prison. Claig Castle is special because of its design. It has thick walls, about 3 meters (10 feet) wide. Its style is like other castles built on the mainland during that time.
The Battle of Epiphany
Some historians think a famous battle happened here. This was the Battle of Epiphany in 1156. It was an important event in the history of the region.
Ferry Services in the Sound
Connecting the Islands
The Sound of Islay is an important waterway for travel. The local government, Argyll and Bute Council, runs a ferry service here. This ferry carries both cars and people.
It travels across the Sound from Feolin on Jura to Port Askaig on Islay. Another ferry company, Caledonian MacBrayne, also uses Port Askaig. Their ferry connects Port Askaig on Islay to Kennacraig on the Scottish mainland.
Renewable Energy in the Sound
Tidal Power Project
The Sound of Islay is a great place for making clean energy. In March 2011, the Scottish Government approved a big project here. They decided to build the world's largest tidal array.
A tidal array uses the power of ocean currents to make electricity. This project plans to have 10 tidal turbines. These turbines are expected to create enough power for over 5,000 homes. The Sound of Islay is perfect for this because it has strong currents. It also offers shelter from big storms.
