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Kildalton Cross, Islay, Argyll and Bute
Dated to the latter part of the 8th century, the Kildalton Cross is one of the most complete Early Christian crosses in Scotland.

The Kildalton Cross has many similarities to the great crosses of the 8th century carved at Iona. During this period Iona flourished as an artistic and a religious centre. 'Daughter-houses' were founded in Ireland, Pictland and in Northumbria.

Wooden crosses were used in the time of Columba, founder of the monastery on Iona in 563 AD. By the 8th century the monastery had become an important artistic centre with wealthy patrons, and the likely home of The Book of Kells.

This 8th-century high cross is carved from a single block of local blue-stone. The west face is decorated with interlace, large bosses covered with close mesh patterns and 'birds' nest' bosses (these have sunken centres with smaller bosses inside).

Four high-relief lions on the cross-arms may symbolise Christ as the Lion of Judah. Kildalton, one of the best-preserved of the Iona group of crosses, stands close to a medieval church which may occupy the site of an early monastic foundation. This photograph was taken in 1984.

Sarcophagus, Govan Old Parish Church, Glasgow. This lower half probably dates from the 10th or 11th century.

Brechin Round Tower, Angus, photographed in 1986. The tower is thought to date to the 11th century and its roof to the 14th century.

Early Christian Monastery and Medieval Abbey, Iona, Argyll and Bute, photographed in 1994. The Benedictine Abbey was built around AD 1200. Alterations and rebuilding took place in the 13th and 15th centuries. It was restored in the 20th century.