Inchcolm

Inchcolm (Scottish Gaelic: Innis Choluim - Island of Columba) is an island in the Firth of Forth, east of the Forth Bridge, south of Aberdour, Fife, and north of the City of Edinburgh in Scotland.

Related Topics:
Scottish Gaelic - Island - Firth of Forth - Forth Bridge - Aberdour - Fife - City of Edinburgh - Scotland

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The main feature of the island is the medieval Inchcolm Abbey. In former times, and perhaps partly due to its dedication to Columba, it was sometimes nicknamed 'Iona of the East'.

Related Topics:
Inchcolm Abbey - Columba - Iona

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The island also contains a Hog-Backed Stone, probably of Norse origin. These are uncommon, another example being found in Govan.

Related Topics:
Hog-Backed Stone - Norse - Govan

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The island can be broadly divided into three sections: the east, where its military defensive operations were centered during the Second World War, the lower central part, where the small natural harbour and shop are, and the larger west end, which is home to a large colony of seagulls and fulmars.

Related Topics:
Second World War - Seagulls - Fulmars

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The island is inhabited by the custodian for Historic Scotland and his partner, who also run the shop and maintain the island. The island can only be reached by the public by the single ferry service from South Queensferry, the Maid of the Forth, found directly below the Forth Bridge.

Related Topics:
Historic Scotland - South Queensferry - Forth Bridge

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