The history of Iona dates back to AD 563 when an Irish monk called Columba, decided to set up his monastery on the small Island to preach Christianity, the word of Columba's church soon spread throughout Scotland making Iona the centre point of Christianity in Scotland. Iona's importance was such that it became the burial place for Scottish Kings. Forty-eight are said to lie here, from Fergus MacEric in the 6th century to MacBeth in the 11th century. The original wooden monastery of Columba was destroyed by the Vikings in the 8th century.

Visitors arriving in Iona are overwhelmed with the beautiful scenery and tranquility of the place. The first historic building you see when you arrive on the Island is the ruins of a 13^th century medieval nunnery, the finest example of a medieval nunnery in Britain.  A short distance away stands the beautifully restored Abbey Church.  The small shrine of St Columba is where the saint is said to be buried. On visiting the Iona Heritage Centre you will see all aspects of Island life. It also houses the 15^th Century MacLean’s Cross which was carved in Iona. The oldest building on the island is St Oran's Chapel, associated with St Margaret, the 11th century Queen of King Malcolm Canmore. In the graveyard there are buried many Kings of Scotland who journeyed to their last resting place by boat.