Iona is an island in the Inner Hebrides, off the Ross of Mull on the western coast of Scotland. It is mainly known for Iona Abbey, though there are other buildings on the island. Iona Abbey was a centre of Gaelic monasticism for three centuries and is today known for its relative tranquility and natural environment. It is a tourist destination and a place for spiritual retreats. Its modern Scottish Gaelic name means "Iona of (Saint) Columba".
The Abbey as seen from the sea
The Bay at the Back of the Ocean
The Book of Kells – Gospel of John
Panoramic view
Scottish Gaelic, also known as Scots Gaelic or simply Gaelic, is a Goidelic language native to the Gaels of Scotland. As a Goidelic language, Scottish Gaelic, as well as both Irish and Manx, developed out of Old Irish. It became a distinct spoken language sometime in the 13th century in the Middle Irish period, although a common literary language was shared by the Gaels of both Ireland and Scotland until well into the 17th century. Most of modern Scotland was once Gaelic-speaking, as evidenced especially by Gaelic-language place names.
1891 distribution of English (including Scots) and Gaelic in Scotland 75–80% Gaelic, and English ━ 25–75% Gaelic, and English; line indicates the 50% isogloss 5–25% Gaelic, and English 0–5% Gaelic, and English Purely English
Cumbernauld Gaelic Choir in 2021
Anne Lorne Gillies speaking publicly in the Scottish Gaelic language
Police Scotland vehicle logo (Bilingual)
