Finlaggans

Finlaggan is a historic complex on a pair of small islets in Loch Finlaggan on the island of Islay, Scotland. It was the political and ceremonial center of the Lords of the Isles, a powerful Gaelic lordship that dominated much of the western Highlands and islands during the medieval period. The site stands as a key reminder of the region’s medieval governance and religious life.

The ruins at Finlaggan include the remains of fortifications, domestic buildings, and a chapel, reflecting its use as both a seat of government and a religious center. The two islets once hosted a variety of structures that supported a medieval court, administration, and daily life. After the forfeiture of the Lords of the Isles in the 15th century, the complex gradually declined and fell into ruin.

Archaeological work and conservation efforts have helped establish Finlaggan’s significance within Scottish medieval history. It is protected as a scheduled ancient monument and is managed to preserve the visible remains while allowing public access. The site is popular with visitors for its historic atmosphere, views across the loch, and its role in shaping the history of Islay and the wider western seaboard.

Today, Finlaggan is open to the public with access via a nearby car park and footpaths. Interpretive materials and local guidance provide context for visitors interested in the Lords of the Isles, medieval Scottish politics, and religious life in the region. The site remains a focal point for understanding Islay’s medieval heritage and its enduring cultural landscape.