Celtic Crosses

St. Martin's Cross has stood on the Isle for over 1000 years.

Celtic crosses were prevalent on Iona. The most prominent is the St. Martin's cross. It has stood on Iona for over 1000 years. It is carved from a single block of epediorite. Along with Biblical images is the Celtic pattern of weaving vines that symbolize the intertwining of heaven and earth, matter and spirit. There are remains of 5 ancient high crosses on Iona. A few others dot the island as memorials. They are reminders of the significant and sacred place that is Iona.

Two shots of the St. John's Cross standing in front of the Abbey

This cross along the road to the north end of the isle was erected in 1878 by the Duke of Argyll in memory of his wife. There was a long connection between the Argyll family and Iona. In 1693 the Argyll family took possession of much of the Isle including the Abbey which was in much ruin. In the 1800's, the eighth Duke of Argyll began restoration and later gave it over to a trust. He had two conditions - that is be restored to a place of worship and not a tourist museum and that it be a home for Christians of all denominations. Inside the Abbey is a monument to him and a tomb of his wife. Interesting for me in all this is that my hometown is Argyle, Wisconsin. The town is named after the Scottish Duke of Argyle (Argyll).