Introduction
This evening, I am focusing on Finlaggan, an important historical site in the north of the island of Islay. Location is a few miles west of the ferry terminal of Port Askaig. Islay forms part of a group of islands known as the Inner Hebrides which lie off Scotland’s west coast.
Information on Finlaggan
This particular area of Islay appears to have been important in prehistory. There is a standing stone (Neolithic) and evidence of crannogs (Iron-Age) From the 12th to 16th centuries, Finlaggan was the power base of the chiefs of Clan MacDonald, Lords of the Isles.The MacDonalds effectively operated a private fiefdom controlling vast tracts of the west of Scotland. The progenitor of the clan was Somerled. He established a ruling dynasty following his defeat of the Norse in a sea battle during 1156.
Eilean Mor is the largest island. Here archaeologists have found evidence of fortifications, a great hall, extensive living quarters, a chapel and paved roads. These features collectively suggest a wealthy and sophisticated population.
Eilean Na Comhairle translates as ‘council island’. This was where the Lords of the Isles held meetings of the Council of the Isles. Here have been found massive walls suggestive of a medieval castle or 13th century hall-house which appears to have been occupied up until the 15th century. Before the medieval structure there may have existed a dun or broch (defensive iron-age buildings). A Stone Age axe found on the site indicates occupation dating back about 5000 years.
Video clip of Finlaggan site.
There is a visitor centre and the site is open to the public.