The Amazing Italian Chapel in the Orkney Islands of Scotland
The Italian Chapel. A church built by Italian prisoners of war while constructing The Churchill Barriers
Amazing is the word I would use to describe The Italian Chapel in the Orkney Islands of Scotland.
A visit to see The Italian Chapel was not a key part of the trip plan to Scotland. After the visit, I might conclude, The Italian Chapel, its story, and its history, have provided an unexpected impact on me.
I have spent the last number of weeks wanting to write something about The Italian Chapel. The experience of the visit was a material surprise. Afterward, I have read about it extensively. The brochure is simple and dignified. I have a physical copy in hand. The Orkney Island’s official website (located here] is professional and respectful. Many of the websites on The Italian Chapel provide compelling background and detail.
However something is missing. It is something that is a big part of the onsite visit at The Italian Chapel that is not included in these materials. What is it?
It is the Stations of the Cross. The Stations of the Cross take up a significant part of the Italian Chapel. The wood carvings are as elegant as can be. Where are the Stations of the Cross in the brochure and websites? They do not appear, at least from what I can see. Why would this be?
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For me to guess as to the reasoning, would reveal my ignorance.
There is a historical, artistic, and spiritual aspect of the Stations. Which of these speak to you?
*** Jeff’s Thoughts and Other Worthless Trivia ***
I am raised and versed on the Bible. I am interested in religious history and the impact of religion on someone’s faith. I am Episcopalian. However, I am not a practicing member of a local parish.
I am intrigued with Houses of Faith and their history. There is the religious and organized religion aspect to them. However, as mentioned previously, I am most interested on the role these buildings and its associated religion had on someone’s faith.
There are many such buildings in Scotland. For example: The Church of Scotland (Glasgow). It represents, One Cathedral, Three Churches, and possesses 16 distinct Chapels. My fortune, is I was able to see each of them first hand. The Post to My trip to Scotland is [here].
Jeff: Dave and I saw Stations of the Cross depictions when touring Basilica of Saint Louis King while in St. Louis for the Frozen Four. Basilica of Saint Louis King exists on the site of the first church in Saint Louis, now in the shadow of the Arch. Pope John XXIII designated the historic church as basilica on January 25, 1961. The detail of the Stations of the Cross captured the essence and emotion of the day of Christ’s crucifixion. I did not take pictures but took time to study each of the 14 carvings. It is a beautiful church and a must see in St. Louis. It is located not far from the federal courthouse where Dred and Harriet Scott filed suit for their freedom in 1846.
Great stuff Steve. Thanks for sharing it.