The Argyll Book

Book excerpt: Before the local government reorganization of 1975, Argyll was also one of Scotland's biggest counties. Bounded by Inverness-shire to the north and stretching as far south as the Mull of Kintyre, it had a coastline measuring a staggering 2220 miles and took in ninety islands, including Mull, Iona Tiree, Lismore, Jura, Islay, Gigha and Colonsay. The story of Argyll is a staggering roll of great names, deeds and institutions, of places such as Dunadd, Iona and Islay, which played key roles in the political and religious development of the nation, as well as the of a Gaelic culture whose influence stretched throughout Scotland and beyond. This book consists of over twenty chapters by recognized experts, covering a huge range of topics, from geology and prehistory to stately homes, folklore and literature, which provide a lively and informed introduction to this fascinating part of Scotland.