GCSP05 Iona

Iona is an island in the Inner Hebrides, off the Ross of Mull on the western coast of Scotland. It is mainly known for Iona Abbey, though there are other buildings on the island. Iona Abbey was a centre of Gaelic monasticism for three centuries and is today known for its relative tranquillity and natural environment as well as for its importance to pilgrims. Saint Colmcille (also known as Saint Columba) "Icolmkill") was born in County Donegal, Ireland in 521 AD. He is one of Ireland's three primary patron saints alongside Patrick and Brigid, a famous royal-descended monk, a scribe, and the founder of the influential monastery on the Scottish island of Iona, that helped spread faith, art, and literacy across Britain, and the island later became the burial place for dozens of early Scottish, Irish, and Norse kings. He died in 563 AD, died there in 597 AD, and was originally buried on the island. However, his relics were later moved in 849 AD, with parts going to Dunkeld in Scotland and Downpatrick in Ireland.