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The Orkney Islands lie across the Pentland Firth from the north-east tip of the mainland of Scotland. The Orkney archipelago covers an area of nearly 376 square miles (974 sq km) comprising about 70 islands, of which 18 are inhabited. The population is around 19,500. The majority of people live on the Mainland, with the greatest population concentrations being around the main towns of Kirkwall and Stromness. The language of Orkney was known as "Norn" and was a variant of Norse. It died out in the 18th Century.

Geography

Lying on latitude 59 degrees north, only 50 miles south of Greenland, Orkney is, 30 miles from east to west and 53 miles north to south. The total coastline is approximately 570 miles. Orkney can be divided into three distinct regions; the North Isles, the South Isles and the Mainland. The largest island and half the total land area, is the Mainland, a corruption of the Old Norse "Meginland". The island was originally referred to as "Hrossey" - "Horse Island" in Old Norse. The Mainland can be divided politically into two "sectors" by a line that runs roughly between Kirkwall and Scapa. These are known locally as the East Mainland and West Mainland.

Industry

Traditionally based on farming and fishing but the tourism and food processing industries is rapidly becoming significant employers, with Orkney enjoying an excellent reputation for the quality of its food products. Major employers include Orkney Islands Council, NHS Orkney, Talisman (UK) Ltd, Ortak and the construction industry.

History

Ruled by the Norse until 1468, the islands' ancient history can be traced by their historic and prehistoric monuments, which date back over 5,000 years. Every part of the islands has its ancient monuments, mostly in a remarkably good state of repair. From the stone age Orcadians, who left a legacy of monuments that continue to inspire today, through to the Vikings, who took the islands in the ninth century and made them the centre of a powerful Earldom and part of the kingdom of Norway, the islands are covered with monuments that stand as constant reminders of the events and people that have gone before. Houses and tombs dating back 5,000 years share the landscape with Bronze Age cemeteries, standing stones, 2,000 year old brochs, Viking ruins, medieval churches and Renaissance palaces.

Places of interest

The scenery and wildlife of the islands have much to offer. Many historic and prehistoric sites including the great tomb of Maes Howe and well preserved prehistoric village of Skara Brae. The magnificent St Magnus Cathedral in Kirkwall is one of the finest examples of Romanesque architecture in Europe.

Orkney Flag