Where are the Northern Isles located relative to Scotland?
The Northern Isles sit off the north coast of Scotland, separated from the mainland by the Pentland Firth. Orkney lies about 10 miles away while Shetland sits roughly 65 miles to the north.
Questions about Northern Isles
Short answers, pulled from the story.
When did the Northern Isles become part of Scotland permanently?
Northern Isles were directly annexed to Scotland in 1471 following a pledge made in 1468 by Christian I acting as King of Norway. The connection with the crown of Scotland became permanent because the money for Margaret's dowry never changed hands.
What geological features define the landscape of Shetland compared to Orkney?
Shetland presents a far more complex geological picture featuring ultrabasic ophiolite and remnants of the Iapetus Ocean floor found on Unst and Fetlar. Orkney rests almost entirely on Old Red Sandstone dating back to the Middle Devonian period with metamorphic rocks known as the Moine series underneath.
Which prehistoric sites make up the Heart of Neolithic Orkney UNESCO World Heritage Site?
Four prehistoric remains comprise the Heart of Neolithic Orkney designated in 1999 including Skara Brae, Maes Howe, the Stones of Stenness, and the Ring of Brodgar. The Knap of Howar farmstead on Papa Westray likely represents the oldest preserved house in northern Europe.
How did Christianity arrive in the Northern Isles during the tenth century?
King Olaf I of Norway fully Christianized the islands by fiat in 995 while stopping in South Walls en route from Ireland to Norway. He summoned jarl Sigurd the Stout declaring he would kill him and ravage every island with fire and steel if baptism was refused.