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Hidden away on the uninhabited island of Eynhallow in Orkney, Scotland, lies a mysterious ruin that has captured the imaginations of people for centuries. This is the Eynhallow Church, a 12th-century structure that is believed to have been part of a monastery. The church is an important piece of medieval history that remained unknown to the world until its accidental discovery in the mid-19th century.

The discovery of the Eynhallow Church was a stroke of luck that occurred during a time of tragedy. In 1851, a fever outbreak struck the island, and the decision was made to dismantle the houses to make them uninhabitable. During this process, the thatched roof of one of the cottages was removed, revealing the foundation of a much older structure below. The building was initially thought to be a castle, but closer inspection revealed that it was a church.

The church had been hidden away for centuries, repurposed as a dwelling for people who had no idea of its true significance. The church's original purpose only became apparent once the roof was removed, revealing the stunning architecture and design of this ancient structure. The Eynhallow Church's walls were made of red sandstone and measured 21 meters by 7 meters across. The best-preserved features of the church include the walls of the porch, the gables in the nave, and the foundation of the chancel walls.

The discovery of the Eynhallow Church caused quite a stir among historians and archaeologists. It was soon determined that the church dated back to the 12th century and was likely part of a monastery, possibly of the Benedictine order. The church's design and architecture suggest that it was an important religious center in its time, with a rectangular-sized nave and a square-ended chancel at the east end.

Eynhallow Church's importance is not limited to its historical significance. The island itself has a rich history and is an important site in Norse folklore. It is said to be the home of the Finfolk, a mysterious tribe of mythical shapeshifters. The island was also described in the Orkneyinga Saga, an anonymous narrative of the history of the Orkney and Shetland islands. The story tells of Olaf, the foster son of Svein Asleifarson and ward of Kolbein Hruga, who was kidnapped from Eynhallow in 1155.

Today, Eynhallow Church is a scheduled monument and is not open to visitors due to high-level masonry inspections. The island can be accessed by private boat from Rousay or Orkney Mainland, but visitors must be aware of the island's protected status and tread carefully when exploring the area.

The discovery of the Eynhallow Church is a testament to the importance of preserving our historical heritage. The accidental uncovering of this ancient structure has provided historians with valuable insights into the religious and social practices of medieval times. It also serves as a reminder that history is all around us, waiting to be discovered and explored.

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