Birsay

Birsay is a parish situated in the northwest corner of The Mainland of Orkney, Scotland. The area is primarily characterized by its agricultural landscape, with vast grasslands dedicated to beef cattle farming. However, Birsay is perhaps more widely known for its significant ancient monuments, which draw numerous visitors, particularly during the summer months. These sites offer a glimpse into the region's rich prehistoric and Norse past.

Ancient Monuments and Historical Significance

Two key historical sites are managed by Historic Scotland and are major attractions. The first is the extensive prehistoric and Norse settlements found on the tidal island known as the Brough of Birsay. This site provides archaeological evidence of long-term human habitation and a blend of ancient cultures. The second significant monument is the ruined Earl's Palace, located on the mainland opposite the Brough, at the northern edge of the village. This palace, along with other Stewart residences, served as a primary dwelling for the Earls of Orkney.

Further evidence of prehistoric human activity can be observed on the north shore of Mainland Orkney, including the remarkably well-preserved ruins of the Broch of Gurness. These structures collectively highlight the enduring human presence and the diverse historical layers within the Birsay parish.

The Earl's Palace

The Earl's Palace is a late 16th-century structure, commissioned by Robert Stewart, the 1st Earl of Orkney. Despite its current ruined state, the palace's original layout can be discerned as four ranges surrounding an open courtyard. A distinctive architectural feature for Scotland at that time, and unprecedented in the northern parts of the country, were the small corner towers. The building has been uninhabited since the close of the 17th century. Its original grounds included walled garden enclosures, an archery range, and a bowling green, indicating a sophisticated and amenity-rich residence for its era.

St Magnus Church and Early Cathedral Site

Adjacent to the Earl's Palace stands the St Magnus Church, which serves the united parishes of Birsay and Harray. Architectural remnants embedded in the church's walls, coupled with archaeological excavations of its foundations, strongly suggest that this location was once the site of Orkney's very first cathedral, known as Christchurch. This early religious center is believed to have been established in the 11th to 12th centuries by Earl Thorfinn the Mighty, following his pilgrimage to Rome. Although the episcopal seat was relocated to St Magnus Cathedral in Kirkwall in the later 12th century, the Bishops of Orkney maintained a residence in Birsay, referred to by the Latin name Mons Bellus, well into the late medieval period. A nearby bridge is also thought to have medieval origins, further attesting to the long history of settlement and infrastructure in the area.