Iona Abbey and Nunnery, located on the Isle of Iona in the United Kingdom, is a beautiful and historic site that exudes tranquility and spiritual significance. The abbey, with its rich history and peaceful ambiance, offers visitors a chance to explore ancient grave markers, cloisters, and spectacular carvings. The site also features a museum that provides insight into the Abbey's enduring legacy throughout history. For those seeking a spiritual experience, the Abbey holds a special place as a destination for prayer and contemplation. Open to visitors from Thursday to Tuesday, the Abbey welcomes guests to immerse themselves in its rich history and serene surroundings. A visit to Iona Abbey and Nunnery is a must for those looking to explore the cultural and spiritual heritage of the region.
Reviews
A beautiful abbey. Spiritual home of Christianity in Scotland, and site of the first monastery founded by St Columba. It is a deeply spiritual place, and its isolation adds to its atmosphere.
Come as you are, but be prepared to leave as someone else.
I came here to (Mull/Iona) on pilgrimage to the Orthodox Monastery of All Celtic Saints. What blessings I have received and still am receiving from this holy place. Yes, it is a tourist attraction and you can process it beautifully that way.
But it's "true reality", the "real foundation" of Iona is in its roots in "Celtic Orthodox Christianity!" I sojourned to Iona not to visit it but rather to actually experience it through prayer and contemplation.
My God, where do you start? Simply stunning ancient and beautifully preserved Abbey complex that oozes history from each and every corner. See grave markers, cloisters,ancient High crosses and buildings with spectacular carvings to name just a few. Well worth the entry price as you also get an audio guide that is very helpful in explaining what you are looking at. Magnificent experience and highly recommended.
This is a beautiful serene island.
We travelled from Fort William as a day trip.
Worth visiting if you like christian history, a sense of monastic life, and the tranquility of a small Scottisg Island.
Iona Abbey was absolutely beautiful. It was quiet, peaceful and felt very surreal. You could feel the history and the peace walking around and throughout the nunnery. I lit a candle for my grandmother who passed away in April at the church and it was an emotional and spiritual moment I will never forget. They have a little museum in the back of the Abbey filled with all the history of the church that I highly recommend people go and check out. It was incredible to read about how the Abbey perservered throughout history.
I would say this is a "must see" if you visit Mull. A good drive or bus trip from Craignure. No tourist cars allowed on the island. A short ferry ride. It's quite a spiritual place for many people & pilgrims. You can just visit the Nunnery ruins & Abbey or walk around the island as well if you want to do more.
I'm not religious and I always thought iona Abbey would be an empty ruin with its 1500 years aging. It was surprisingly well worth the £10 entry . I didn't even mind paying it despite several easy 'skip In for free' areas around it . So we'll maintained and a fascinating history . Don't skip in... that entry money is doing some brilliant restoration work . 👏
If you go to Isle of Mull there is no question you need to take a day trip to Isle of Iona. The Abbey and history are incredible plus the cute shops and lunch stops! Go, take your time, and enjoy the beauty!
Location
Hours
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Monday
10:00 AM - 04:00 PM
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Tuesday
10:00 AM - 04:00 PM
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Wednesday
10:00 AM - 04:00 PM
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Thursday
10:00 AM - 04:00 PM
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Friday
10:00 AM - 04:00 PM
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Saturday
10:00 AM - 04:00 PM
- Sunday Close
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