Kilnave Chapel and Cross

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Kilnave Chapel and Cross Church, located in the Gruinart area of Scotland, are two historical and religious sites that are worth visiting for any tourist interested in Scottish history and architecture.

Kilnave Chapel, also known as Cill Naoimh in Gaelic, is a ruined chapel that dates back to the 13th century. It is located on the Isle of Islay and is accessible by road. The chapel was built by the Lords of the Isles, who were the rulers of the Hebrides at the time. The chapel was dedicated to Saint Naomh or Saint Columba, who was a revered saint in Scotland. The chapel was abandoned after the Protestant Reformation in the 16th century and is now in ruins, with only the walls remaining. However, it is still a beautiful site to visit, especially for those interested in medieval architecture.

The chapel is located in a picturesque location overlooking the ocean, with the Paps of Jura visible in the distance. The chapel is surrounded by a cemetery that contains many ancient grave markers, including the graves of the Macleans of Duart and the Campbells of Shawfield. The chapel also has a medieval cross located in the cemetery, which is known as the Kilnave Cross.

The Kilnave Cross is a 14th-century Celtic cross that is still in good condition despite its age. The cross is made of sandstone and stands at over 2 meters tall. The cross is adorned with intricate carvings of Celtic knots, animals, and figures from the Bible. The cross is a significant piece of Scottish history and is worth visiting for anyone interested in Celtic art and design.

The Cross Church, also known as Cill Chriosd in Gaelic, is a smaller church located nearby Kilnave Chapel. It is also in ruins but is still a beautiful site to visit. The church dates back to the 14th century and was also built by the Lords of the Isles. It was dedicated to Saint Christ or Saint Christopher, who was a patron saint of travelers. The church is located in a beautiful wooded area and is surrounded by a cemetery with many ancient grave markers.

Both Kilnave Chapel and Cross Church are accessible by car and are a short drive from the main town of Port Charlotte. The sites are free to visit and are open to the public year-round. There are also informational signs at each site that provide historical and cultural context for the buildings and their significance.

Overall, Kilnave Chapel and Cross Church are two beautiful and historic sites worth visiting for any tourist interested in Scottish history, architecture, and culture. The sites are peaceful and offer a glimpse into Scotland's rich religious and cultural heritage.

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