Holy Island
Lindisfarne is internationally famous both for its medieval religious heritage and also its more recent picturesque 16th century castle. These, together with most of the community, are located on the Southern part of the island – the main focus for tourists and holidaymakers. Many are also attracted by the peace and tranquillity which pervades the Island and the remote Northern conservation area, with more than its fair share of quiet beaches and unique natural history.
Lindisfarne has two names. When the Normans re-established ecclesiastical life on the island with a Priory and a Church, late in the 11th Century, they accorded it the official name of Insula Sacra, Holy Island, in honour of the Celtic saints who lived and worked there. Both names are interchangeable and taken together form ‘The Holy Island of Lindisfarne’.
Following the death of St Cuthbert, it became a place of pilgrimage and the magnificent Lindisfarne Gospels were created in his honour.