Italian Chapel

This evocative place was built by Italian WW2 POW’s in 1941. The men were captured in North Africa then sent to 3 camps on Orkney. Their main purpose was to construct Churchill’s Barriers to protect British fleet ships which often sheltered nearby. It is a poignant reminder of the central role Orkney played in the war. The narrative includes some light-hearted stories too. The realism of the chapel’s interior is surprising. The painted tiling pattern on the walls which has recently had restoration work carried out, is incredibly multi-dimensional. This place is well worth a visit. 👍👍👍

Remarkable beautiful and poignant. Happy to pay the entry fee to ensure the upkeep of this historical church. The ladies at the entry shop were very friendly and offered advise and info. Nice gift shop too. The story of this church is nicely conveyed on display boards outside and additional informative personal tales on displayed inside. The artistry and skill is remarkable given the circumstances of the build. No spoilers just add it to the must see Orkney list. Don’t miss the St George statue in the car park too. A local fishing gilly advised this visit to us and I’m very grateful top tip is to check tide times, weather and the Orkney council website for any barrier road closures if visiting during stormy weather. Cruise ship and Coach tours visit here so perhaps time for after lunch when quieter. Paved ramp access and no steps inside.

Pretty cool little place, nice bit of history, and there were highland cows that love a little scratch behind the ears. I'd recommend just for the cows tbf, the church was a nice bonus though.

The chapel isn't large and would say 30 minutes would suffice for a thorough visit. Artwork and painting both internally and externally is fantastic. Sufficient information provided about the chapels history, staff at the entrance were pleasant.

What a testament to human faith. Built by Italian prisoners of war who had been captured in North Africa, a place as far removed from Orkney as you could find. The idea of one man who heard the need of the POW's for a place to worship. Hand built and decorated from scrap materials.

This is truly a magnificent work of art, the way the painting inside brings the drab boring internal shape of a Nissen hut into the realms of an ornate sculpted masterpiece. Amazing to think what the Italian prisoners of war managed to do here, but also, it shows how well POW's were treated by the British, in contrast to the way allied prisoners were treated by their captors at the same time.

Beautiful chapel. So lovely that this important place has been preserved and looked after. A poignant reminder of the past.

What a beautiful church to visit, full of intresting history. Once inside the church something magical happens to you. You will need to visit to experience this. Staff are great and really helpful. Had a couple of swims up and down the barrier here which is one of churchils barriers.