Egilsay
The name Egilsay appears on maps of the Orkney Islands, yet its roots spark debate among historians. At first glance, the word seems to mean Egil's island, with Egil as a Norse personal name. This interpretation fits many Northern Isles names ending in say or ey. However, unusual for this region, scholars suggest a Gaelic component exists within the term. The Gaelic word eaglais means church, and it may form part of the island's root. A pre-Norse foundation dominates the landscape today. Just north lies Kili Holm, which might represent cille, a monastic cell. This linguistic puzzle suggests the island held religious significance before Norse settlers arrived.
Saint Magnus met his end on this small Scottish island during the year 1117. An axe blow struck him directly to the head, killing the nobleman who would later become a saint. The island became the site where his body rested after the violent act. For centuries, the story of Saint Magnus remained part of the Orkneyinga saga, treated by some as mere legend. Local tradition holds that a church stands dedicated to him on the shore. This structure was either built or re-dedicated to honor the martyr. Visitors can still see the stone walls of St Magnus Church today. It serves as a physical reminder of the blood spilled there over nine hundred years ago.
A skull with a large crack appeared in the walls of St Magnus Cathedral in Kirkwall. This discovery validated historical accounts of the saint's violent death. The bone showed damage consistent with an axe strike, matching the description from the saga. Before this find, many dismissed the tale of the murder as folklore without basis. The cracked skull provided tangible proof that the event actually occurred. It linked the written history of the Orkneyinga saga to physical evidence found decades later. Archaeologists and historians studied the remains carefully before placing them back into the cathedral fabric. The object now rests within the same building that houses the saint's memory.
Census data recorded 26 people living on Egilsay during the year 2011. This figure represented a drop of almost one third compared to 2001 when 37 usual residents were counted. While Scottish island populations grew by four percent overall during that period, Egilsay shrank significantly. By 2022, the population had declined further to just 17 individuals. These numbers reflect broader trends affecting remote communities across the Northern Isles. Fewer families choose to remain on small islands like this one. The decline contrasts sharply with the growth seen in larger island groups nearby. Each census count marks another chapter in the island's changing human story.
Orkney Ferries sail from Egilsay to Tingwall on the Orkney Mainland. The route passes through Wyre and Rousay before reaching the mainland shore. This service connects the isolated community to essential supplies and transport links. Without these boats, daily life would become nearly impossible for current residents. The ferry schedule allows access to schools, shops, and medical services located elsewhere. Travelers can board at the small harbor and reach other destinations within hours. The vessel remains vital for maintaining the island's connection to the wider world. It ensures that Egilsay does not drift entirely out of reach of modern conveniences.
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Common questions
What is the origin of the name Egilsay?
The name Egilsay likely combines a Norse personal name with a Gaelic word for church. Scholars suggest the term may derive from the Gaelic word eaglais meaning church rather than just Egil's island.
When did Saint Magnus die on Egilsay?
Saint Magnus died on this small Scottish island during the year 1117. An axe blow struck him directly to the head killing the nobleman who would later become a saint.
Where can visitors see the stone walls of St Magnus Church today?
Visitors can still see the stone walls of St Magnus Church today on the shore of Egilsay. This structure was either built or re-dedicated to honor the martyr Saint Magnus.
How many people lived on Egilsay in 2022?
By 2022 the population had declined further to just 17 individuals. Census data recorded 26 people living on Egilsay during the year 2011 before dropping to 37 usual residents in 2001.
Which islands does Orkney Ferries connect Egilsay to?
Orkney Ferries sail from Egilsay to Tingwall on the Orkney Mainland passing through Wyre and Rousay. The route connects the isolated community to essential supplies and transport links located elsewhere.