Things To DoMyths & Legends
The name Stronsay, derives from the Old Norse name, Strjonsey, given by Viking settlers and variously translated as ‘star island’ – reflecting the distinctive coastal contours and numerous bays – ‘profit island’ and, more prosaically, ‘good fishing and farming island’.
There are several mentions of Stronsay in the Orkneyinga Saga, a Norse history of the Earls of Orkney dating from c.1200, including the burning of 9 men in a family feud and the negotiations at Huip Ness that led to Earl Erland becoming ruler of all Orkney.
While Norse/Viking colonisation began around 700AD, human presence on the island can be traced back much further than that. Two flint arrowheads unearthed in 2007 are believed to be some 10,000-20,000 years old, making them the earliest such artefacts to be found anywhere in Scotland.
For much more information contact the Stronsay Ranger.