Kirkwall

　　Kirkwall is the capital and largest town of the Orkney Islands, situated on the island of Mainland, off the northern tip of mainland Scotland. The town was elevated to royal burgh status by King James III of Scotland in 1486.

　　In the town center of Kirkwall stands St. Magnus Cathedral, built in honor of Saint Magnus Erlendsson. Adjacent to the cathedral are the impressive ruins of the former Bishop’s Palace and Earl’s Palace. The area is also home to two museums: the Tankerness House Museum, located in one of Scotland’s best-preserved 16th-century town houses, exhibits local history items, including internationally significant artifacts related to the prehistoric era, Picts, and Vikings; the other is the Orkney Wireless Museum, which showcases collections related to radio and gramophone technology. Additionally, the town features several historic buildings worth exploring, such as the 11th-century Norwegian St. Olaf's Church.

　　Kirkwall Reason to visit: Capital of the Orkney Islands in the UK Continent: Europe Country/Region: Britain Province/State: Orkney Islands City: Kirkwall