On the shortcut walking path between the ferry landing and the Abbey sits the ruins of an Augustinian Nunnery built in the 13th century. The path runs though the grounds and the ruins. Amidst the remaining stone walls are patches of lawn used often as places to meditate or just relax in peace. Between rocks in the walls grow small ferns and a few small trailing flower vines. Imagine how they survive with just the moist air and the damp deteriorating mortar between rocks to gain a footing and some nutrients.There seems to be a metaphor around every corner on Iona. In reading a bit about the Nunnery, it is noted that there has been interest at times to restore the Nunnery, but nothing ever transpires. Is it possible that places of women did not, or do not yet, receive the priority given to places of men, like the Abbey? A section from a small book on Iona pilgrimage point out that the Nunnery as is is a witness in itself. It suggests that the Nunnery symbolized that much of our community life, at least in Western society, lies in ruins; that struggles for equality between genders have a long way to go; and that cries of oppressed - women, children and men - still are heard loudly.
Amazing tiny ferns and plant grow between rocks on the Nunnery walls.
Amidst all the ruins are a few small gardens and colorful planters....creating a unique beauty of its own.
If you look close you'll see the lamb upon the rock through the Nunnery ruin, rock window casing. This was just such an interesting and ironic scene.
No comments:
Post a Comment