Where is Shetland located geographically?
Shetland lies between Orkney, the Faroe Islands, and Norway. It marks the northernmost region of the United Kingdom.
Questions about Shetland
Short answers, pulled from the story.
When did Shetland become part of Scotland?
The islands were pledged by Christian I in 1469 as security for his daughter Margaret's dowry to James III of Scotland. The connection became permanent when money was never paid and Parliament confirmed absorption in 1472.
What is the highest point on Shetland?
Ronas Hill stands as the highest point at 450 meters above sea level. Pleistocene glaciations covered the entire islands during that period.
Who colonized Shetland during the late eighth and ninth centuries?
Norse settlers gradually shifted their attention toward these islands from expanding Scandinavian populations. Modern DNA studies indicate Shetlanders are just under half Scandinavian in origin.
How many islands remain inhabited today?
Only sixteen of about one hundred islands remain inhabited today. The largest island is called Mainland with an area of 580 square miles.