Orkneys

Orkney, commonly referred to as the Orkney Islands, is an archipelago in the Northern Isles of Scotland, just off the north coast of the mainland. The group covers about 970 square kilometers and has a population of around 20,000 to 22,000. Mainland is the largest island and contains Kirkwall, the administrative center, and Stromness. The archipelago includes about 70 islands and skerries, of which around 20 are inhabited. The environment features rugged coastlines, machair grasslands, and rich seabird habitats.

History and archaeology are prominent features of the islands. Human activity dates back to the Mesolithic and Neolithic periods. The Heart of Neolithic Orkney, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, comprises Skara Brae, Maeshowe, and the Standing Stones at Ring of Brodgar and Stones of Stenness. Norse influence from the Viking era is evident in place names and historical records; the name Orkney derives from Old Norse Orkneyjar. In the 15th century, the islands were pledged to Scotland and became part of the Scottish realm. St Magnus Cathedral in Kirkwall is a notable medieval site.

Economy and governance: Orkney is a separate council area within Scotland. The economy is driven by tourism, agriculture, fishing and seafood processing, and energy development, including renewables, with whisky production on Mainland and other islands as part of the local industry. The archipelago has a range of public services and infrastructure to support residents and visitors.

Transport and environment: The islands have regular air services from Kirkwall Airport to Scottish cities and ferries between Mainland and other islands, with a ferry link to the Scottish mainland from Scrabster to Stromness. Wildlife includes seals, porpoises, and various seabirds, while Scapa Flow has historical significance as a large natural harbor used as a naval base in the 20th century.