Oronsay Priory Ruins

Argyll and Bute, United Kingdom

Oronsay Priory was a monastery of canons regular on the island of Oronsay. It was in existence by 1353, perhaps founded by John of Islay, Lord of the Isles. It was dedicated to St. Columba, and perhaps was a continuation or a re-activation of an older foundation. Very little is known about it because of the absence of records and its remoteness from the Scottish Lowlands, but on occasions some of the Priors of Oronsay come into the records.

The priory continued in operation until at least 1560, the year of the Scottish Reformation, with the last known prior, Robert Lamont, having been elected in 1555. The lands and property of the priory were given in commendam to Maol Choluim MacDubhthaich in 1561. They were later given to the Bishop of the Isles by King James VI of Scotland after his ascendancy to the throne in 1583. The ruins have been restored and are visible today.

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Founded: 1353
Category: Religious sites in United Kingdom

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4.9/5 (based on Google user reviews)

User Reviews

Jane Colling (14 months ago)
Great mini Pilgrimage from Colonsay at low tide to Oronsay Priory
MARIE CLARE Brice (16 months ago)
Stunning. Beautifully restored ... just magical. Really worth the visit.
Pieter van Midden (17 months ago)
It is really a unique experience to walk to this desolate place (get information about the tides at the post office next to the shop on Colonsay!). Much of the buildings are still intact: a very special atmosphere.
JOSE SANTOS GOMES (17 months ago)
EU SOUBE DESSE LUGAR POR CAUSA DO CALL OF DUTY GHOSTS! I know this place because i play call of duty.
Jonathan Campbell (17 months ago)
Awesome place to visit, need to time the tide out or risk the phone all for help.
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