St Magnus Church, Egilsay

The Story of St. Magnus and the Church at Egilsay

The Tragic Meeting

According to the sagas, around 1116, Earl Magnus traveled to Egilsay to confront his rival, Earl Hakon, over control of Orkney. This meeting ended tragically with the murder of Magnus.

Twenty years later, in 1136, Bishop William of Orkney recognized Magnus’ sanctity and canonized him as a saint. It is believed that St. Magnus Church was built soon after on the site of his murder.

Today, the ruin of St. Magnus Church is one of the finest surviving Norse churches in Scotland, second only to St. Magnus Cathedral in Kirkwall. It stands as a testament to the wealth and authority of Orkney’s Norse rulers. The church remains remarkably intact, featuring three distinct parts:

Chancel to the East: This area housed the altar, with a room above likely serving as a treasury and sacristy.

Central Nave: Islanders and pilgrims would stand or kneel here during services, under a high-pitched roof.

Distinctive Round Tower to the West: Originally at least 4 meters taller, the tower comprised five floors. Its design has architectural parallels in North Germany and around the North Sea, reflecting the extensive contacts of the Orkney earldom.

The enduring structure of St. Magnus Church is a striking example of Norse architecture and the historical significance of Orkney’s Norse rulers.