The Italian Chapel, Lamb Holm: A Testament of Faith and Resilience
A stunning WWII chapel on Lamb Holm, crafted by Italian POWs, symbolizing faith, artistry, and resilience amid adversity.
Nestled on the small island of Lamb Holm in Orkney, the Italian Chapel is a poignant World War II landmark. Created by Italian prisoners of war from two Nissen huts, it showcases extraordinary artistry and devotion amid hardship. The chapel’s delicate frescoes, wrought ironwork, and symbolic sculptures reflect a powerful story of hope, creativity, and cultural exchange. Today, it remains a cherished site of worship, remembrance, and tourism.
A brief summary to Italian Chapel
- Lamb Holm, Orkney, KW17 2SF, GB
- +441856781580
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.5 to 1.5 hours
- Mid ranged
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 9 am-5:30 pm
- Tuesday 9 am-5:30 pm
- Wednesday 9 am-5:30 pm
- Thursday 9 am-5:30 pm
- Friday 9 am-5:30 pm
- Saturday 9 am-5:30 pm
- Sunday 9 am-5:30 pm
Local tips
- Visit during late spring to early autumn for extended opening hours and optimal daylight.
- Allow at least 30 minutes to fully appreciate the intricate artwork and atmosphere inside the chapel.
- Check weather and barrier conditions if driving, as Churchill Barriers can be affected by storms.
- Entry costs £4 for adults; children under 12 enter free. Payment is accepted on-site, preferably contactless.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Car
Driving from Kirkwall, the Italian Chapel is approximately a 15-minute journey via the Churchill Barriers. Parking is available onsite free of charge. Note that during stormy weather, barrier closures may occur, so check local conditions before traveling.
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Bus
Public bus services run from Kirkwall Travel Centre to St Margaret’s Hope (locally called Hope), with stops near Lamb Holm. The journey takes about 30–40 minutes. Bus frequency is limited, so plan accordingly.
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Guided Tour
Several Orkney tour operators offer half- or full-day guided tours including the Italian Chapel. Tours typically last 4–6 hours and provide historical context and transport from Kirkwall or Stromness. Prices range from £50 to £100 per person.
Italian Chapel location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
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Windy Conditions
Discover more about Italian Chapel
Origins Amidst War and Captivity
The Italian Chapel was born out of the harsh realities of World War II. Italian prisoners of war, captured in North Africa, were brought to Lamb Holm to help construct the Churchill Barriers—massive causeways designed to protect the British naval base at Scapa Flow after a devastating submarine attack. Amidst the bleakness of internment, the prisoners sought a place of worship, leading to the transformation of two corrugated iron Nissen huts into a chapel. This initiative was supported by the camp’s priest, Father Giacobazzi, and Major Thomas Pyres Buckland, the camp commandant who respected Italian culture and allowed the POWs some autonomy through piece work.Domenico Chiocchetti’s Vision and Artistic Legacy
At the heart of the chapel’s creation was Domenico Chiocchetti, an Italian artist and prisoner who infused the space with profound spiritual and cultural symbolism. Drawing inspiration from a prayer card featuring Nicolo Barabino’s Madonna of the Olives, Chiocchetti painted the altar’s centerpiece, bringing warmth and devotion to the austere surroundings. Skilled fellow prisoners contributed their crafts—cement workers, electricians, smiths, and metalworkers collaborated to create the chapel’s ornate façade, wrought iron rood screen, candle holders, and other intricate details. The chapel’s interior was cleverly disguised with plasterboard painted to resemble brick and carved stone, transforming the utilitarian huts into a sanctuary of beauty and hope.Symbolism and Community Spirit
The chapel is rich with symbolism reflecting the prisoners’ resilience and longing. A statue of St George slaying the dragon, crafted from barbed wire and concrete, stands as a metaphor for triumph over war and hardship. A tiny metal heart embedded in the floor beneath the gates tells a personal love story of sacrifice and separation. The chapel also became a cultural hub, with music, theatre, and sports providing relief and camaraderie for the prisoners. After the war, the chapel’s significance endured, fostering a lasting bond between Orkney and the Italian town of Moena, Chiocchetti’s hometown.Preservation and Modern-Day Reverence
Post-war deterioration prompted the formation of the Chapel Preservation Committee in 1958. Chiocchetti was invited back to restore his artwork in the 1960s, with further conservation efforts continuing into the 1990s. The chapel is now a Category A listed building, protected for its historical and cultural value. It remains an active place of worship, hosting monthly Catholic Masses and weddings, while also welcoming over 100,000 visitors annually who come to admire its artistry and story.Visitor Experience and Setting
The Italian Chapel is situated on Lamb Holm, accessible via the Churchill Barriers from Mainland Orkney. Visitors can explore the chapel’s intimate interior, appreciating the detailed frescoes, hand-crafted altar, and evocative sculptures. The surrounding landscape offers scenic views of the Orkney islands and the causeways. Ample parking and paved access make it welcoming to a broad range of visitors. Nearby, a small gift shop supports the chapel’s upkeep, offering souvenirs and guidebooks. The chapel’s serene atmosphere invites reflection on faith, creativity, and the enduring human spirit.Legacy of Faith and Friendship
The Italian Chapel stands as a unique symbol of hope and humanity forged in adversity. It embodies the creativity and faith of the Italian POWs who, despite captivity, created a place of beauty and solace. The ongoing connection between Orkney and Moena, maintained by Chiocchetti’s family and local communities, highlights the chapel’s role as a bridge between cultures and generations. It remains a moving tribute to resilience, artistic expression, and the power of faith to uplift the human spirit even in the darkest times.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Churchill Barriers
0.5 km
Historic WWII causeways in Orkney that safeguarded Scapa Flow and now link islands with a rich legacy of resilience and culture.
First Nations And Orcadian Totem Pole
0.8 km
A striking wooden monument in Orkney symbolizing friendship and shared heritage between First Nations and Orcadian cultures.
The Cannon
24.7 km
Historic cannon from an American privateer, set against the stunning backdrop of Stromness harbour’s maritime heritage.
John O'Groats Signpost
29.2 km
Britain's most iconic signpost marks the legendary endpoint of the 874-mile Land's End to John o' Groats journey.
Nybster Broch
39.2 km
Discover the enchanting Nybster Broch, an ancient Iron Age site in Scotland offering a unique glimpse into Pictish history amidst stunning coastal vistas.
Above and Beyond Tours
39.9 km
Discover the breathtaking landscapes of Caithness with Above and Beyond Tours, where adventure meets local expertise in Scotland's stunning north.
Mary Ann's Cottage
40.1 km
Explore the fascinating history of Caithness at Mary Ann's Cottage, a charming museum showcasing 19th-century life and culture.
Old Keiss Castle
41.0 km
Perched on Caithness cliffs, Old Keiss Castle’s dramatic ruins tell the tale of Sinclair nobility and Scotland’s turbulent history.
Whitegate broch
41.5 km
An atmospheric Iron Age broch perched on a Caithness headland, offering dramatic sea views and a powerful sense of Scotland’s ancient past.
Quoyness Chambered Cairn
41.7 km
Discover the ancient mysteries of Quoyness Chambered Cairn, a Neolithic burial site on Sanday Island, Orkney, steeped in history and natural beauty.
Dunnet Links: St. Coomb Chapel (6th century, former site))
43.0 km
Discover the ancient ruins of St. Coomb Chapel, a 6th-century site near Castletown that reveals Scotland’s early Christian heritage.
Castlehill Heritage Centre
43.2 km
Discover the captivating history and culture of Castletown at the Castlehill Heritage Centre, a unique museum in the heart of the Scottish Highlands.
Harold’s Tower
47.1 km
Discover the charm and history of Harold's Tower in Thurso, a stunning heritage site offering breathtaking views and rich cultural significance.
Reiss Sands
47.1 km
Discover the tranquil beauty of Reiss Sands, a pristine public beach near Wick, perfect for relaxation and exploration amidst Scotland's stunning coastline.
Ackergill Tower
47.8 km
Experience the historic charm and stunning beauty of Ackergill Tower, a magnificent castle in the heart of Caithness, Scotland, perfect for your next getaway.
Unmissable attractions to see
Causeway
1.1 km
Historic WWII causeway built by Italian POWs, linking Orkney islands with stunning coastal views and rich heritage.
Roseness Walk
3.7 km
Experience Orkney’s rugged coastal beauty and tranquil wildlife on the easy, scenic Roseness Walk near Cornquoy.
Orkney Fossil & Heritage Centre
3.7 km
Explore Orkney’s ancient fossils, wartime history, and island heritage at this engaging centre on Burray.
Burn of Sutherland
4.7 km
Discover the peaceful Burn of Sutherland, a pristine Highland stream nestled in Orkney’s wild and historic landscape.
Viking Totem pole
5.2 km
A striking Viking-themed carved wooden pole on Burray’s beach, celebrating Orkney’s Norse heritage through local artistry.
Sheila Fleet Kirk Gallery & Café
7.7 km
Handcrafted Orkney jewellery in a restored church, where ancient enamelling techniques meet contemporary design.
Scapa Beach
9.2 km
Discover the tranquil beauty and rich maritime history of Scapa Beach, a scenic coastal gem near Kirkwall in Orkney.
Highland Park Whisky Distillery
9.5 km
Explore the northernmost Scotch whisky distillery, blending Viking heritage and Orkney’s unique peat smoke into world-renowned single malts.
Bishop’s and Earl's Palaces
10.9 km
Explore Kirkwall’s medieval and Renaissance palaces where Norse kings and notorious earls shaped Orkney’s history.
St Magnus Cathedral
11.0 km
Explore Scotland’s oldest cathedral, a stunning medieval masterpiece and spiritual heart of Orkney, rich with Norse history and vibrant cultural life.
The Tankerness House
11.0 km
Explore Orkney’s rich history in the stunning 16th-century Tankerness House, home to the internationally significant Orkney Museum.
The Orkney Museum
11.0 km
Discover Orkney’s story from ancient times to today in the historic Tankerness House, home to nationally significant archaeology and vibrant cultural exhibits.
Badly Drawn Cat
11.1 km
A cozy vegan café and art gallery in Kirkwall blending plant-based delights with local creativity and friendly charm.
Spirit of Orkney
11.2 km
Explore the historic heart of Kirkwall where Orkney’s rich Norse heritage and vibrant local culture come alive.
Orkney Wireless Museum
11.3 km
Explore a century of wireless communication and wartime heritage in Orkney’s volunteer-run museum with interactive exhibits and rare memorabilia.
Essential places to dine
The Sands Hotel, Orkney
5.3 km
A welcoming coastal retreat on Burray Island with stunning sea views, excellent dining, and warm hospitality in the heart of Orkney.
The Murray Arms Hotel & Seafood Restaurant
8.2 km
Historic charm meets fresh seafood in Orkney’s welcoming Murray Arms Hotel, a cozy coastal retreat in St Margaret's Hope.
The Foveran
9.9 km
A family-run British restaurant with rooms offering exquisite local cuisine and stunning countryside views in Kirkwall, Orkney.
Sakura Kitchen
10.5 km
Authentic Japanese takeaway in Kirkwall with weekly-changing menus and ceremonial matcha from Kyoto.
Happy Haddock
10.8 km
Classic Orkney fish and chips with friendly service and hearty portions in the heart of Kirkwall.
The Orkney Hotel
10.8 km
Historic charm meets cosy comfort and local hospitality in the heart of Kirkwall at The Orkney Hotel.
Lucano
10.9 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors and warm hospitality in the heart of Kirkwall at Lucano, a beloved local restaurant and pizzeria.
Empire Chinese Restaurant
10.9 km
A reliable, family-friendly Chinese restaurant in central Kirkwall, serving generous portions of classic dishes in a relaxed setting.
The Storehouse Restaurant with Rooms
11.1 km
A boutique dining and accommodation gem in Kirkwall blending historic charm with world-class local cuisine and cozy rooms.
Trenabies Cafe Bistro
11.1 km
Cozy cafe and bistro in Kirkwall offering hearty local dishes, great coffee, and friendly service in a welcoming atmosphere.
Twenty One
11.1 km
A vibrant Kirkwall hotspot serving unique tapas and expertly crafted cocktails in a stylish, welcoming setting.
Pomona Cafe
11.1 km
A cozy, traditional Kirkwall cafe serving hearty breakfasts and warm hospitality in the heart of Orkney’s capital.
Bothy Bar
11.2 km
Experience the warmth of Bothy Bar in Kirkwall – where delicious food meets delightful drinks in a cozy atmosphere.
Busters Diner
11.2 km
A cozy American-style diner in Kirkwall serving hearty comfort food with British influences and local Orkney beers in a relaxed setting.
Dil Se Restaurant
11.2 km
Experience authentic North Indian and Bangladeshi flavors in Kirkwall’s award-winning Dil Se Restaurant, blending tradition with local freshness.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Celina Rupp Jewellery
1.0 km
Handcrafted Orkney jewellery and café where island stories become wearable art.
Workshop & Loft Gallery
8.1 km
Discover authentic Orcadian knitwear, crafts, and art in the welcoming Workshop & Loft Gallery of St Margaret's Hope.
Deerness Stores
9.1 km
Explore the charming Deerness Stores in Orkney for local goods and delightful snacks, embodying the spirit of island life.
The Original Orkney Hamper Company
10.7 km
Discover authentic Orkney flavors and handcrafted gifts in charming hampers from Kirkwall’s beloved local shop.
Orkney Tweed
10.9 km
Discover authentic Orkney tweed craftsmanship in Kirkwall’s charming boutique, where tradition meets sustainable artisan quality.
Blue Joe's
10.9 km
Discover authentic Orkney crafts and unique souvenirs at Blue Joe's, Kirkwall’s charming gift shop full of local treasures and stories.
Judith Glue
11.0 km
Discover Kirkwall’s charming Aladdin’s Cave of local gifts, knitwear, and jewellery at Judith Glue, a beloved hub of Orcadian craftsmanship since 1976.
The Longship
11.0 km
Discover Orkney’s rich heritage through timeless jewellery, knitwear, and crafts at Kirkwall’s family-run Longship shop.
Aurora Jewellery
11.1 km
Discover exquisite hand-crafted jewellery inspired by Orkney’s heritage and landscapes at Aurora Jewellery in Kirkwall.
Starlings
11.1 km
Discover authentic Orcadian gifts and crafts at Starlings, a charming boutique shop in Kirkwall’s historic heart.
Logo Orkney
11.1 km
Explore Logo Orkney for unique clothing and authentic Orkney-themed souvenirs, perfect for capturing your travel memories.
Kairds
11.1 km
Discover unique gifts and local crafts that capture the spirit of Orkney at Kairds, Kirkwall’s beloved gift shop on Albert Street.
Poundstretcher
11.1 km
Discover unbeatable value and variety at Poundstretcher Kirkwall, your go-to discount store in the heart of Orkney’s town center.
The Orcadian Bookshop
11.1 km
Discover Orkney’s stories and culture at The Orcadian Bookshop, Kirkwall’s independent literary gem in the historic city centre.
St Colms Cafe & Crafts
11.2 km
A cozy Kirkwall café and crafts shop offering homemade treats and unique handcrafted garden furniture and cards.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Robertsons Coffeehoose & Bar
8.1 km
A warm, family-run coffeehouse and bar in historic St Margaret's Hope, serving traditional fare, local drinks, and inclusive menus in a charming setting.
The West End Guest House
10.7 km
A peaceful, centrally located guest house in Kirkwall offering simple comforts and easy access to Orkney’s historic heart.
Royal Cask Whisky Gin Bar
10.9 km
Discover Kirkwall’s historic Royal Cask Whisky Gin Bar, home to over 1,000 whiskies, 160 gins, and authentic Orcadian hospitality in a 350-year-old setting.
Auld Motor Hoose
11.2 km
A cozy Kirkwall pub blending automotive nostalgia with friendly service and local ales in a lively, welcoming atmosphere.
The Neuk
11.2 km
A warm and lively pub-restaurant in Kirkwall offering fresh local fare, historic charm, and a vibrant live music scene.
Torvhaug
11.3 km
A lively Kirkwall pub on Bridge Street, Torvhaug offers local whiskys, cozy vibes, and a vibrant atmosphere beloved by locals and visitors alike.
Skippers
11.3 km
Kirkwall’s vibrant sports bar serving local brews, hearty pub fare, and live games in a welcoming, dog-friendly atmosphere.
Highland Park Bar
11.3 km
A cozy Kirkwall bar serving an extensive range of Highland Park whiskies and local drinks in a warm, inviting atmosphere within the Kirkwall Hotel.
Oot The Back
11.3 km
Discover Kirkwall’s cozy outdoor garden bar with heated booths, local gins, and a relaxed atmosphere behind Orkney Distilling.
Ayre Hotel & Apartments
11.3 km
Comfortable harbor-side hotel with a lively bar, friendly staff, and easy access to Kirkwall’s historic center.
The Taversoe
28.0 km
A cozy 3-star inn on Rousay offering spacious rooms, local cuisine, and stunning sea views in a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
The Mey Hotel
34.3 km
Experience warm Highland hospitality, hearty Scottish fare, and cozy comfort at The Mey Hotel in scenic Thurso.
Dunnet Bay Escapes
39.8 km
Luxurious coastal retreat with stunning Dunnet Bay views, gourmet breakfasts, and serene hot tub relaxation in the heart of the Scottish Highlands.
The Belsair
41.5 km
A cozy gastropub and guesthouse on Sanday offering fresh local seafood, comfortable rooms, and authentic island hospitality.
The Village Inn
41.7 km
A cozy Highland village pub offering hearty meals, real ales, and warm hospitality in the scenic community of Keiss.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
The Orkney Club
11.3 km
A welcoming social hub in Kirkwall offering lively evening entertainment and a friendly community atmosphere in the heart of Orkney.
Skinandi's Nightclub
49.1 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Skinandi's, the northernmost nightclub on Scotland’s mainland with two bars and two dance floors.
The Waterfront
51.0 km
Wick's vibrant nightlife heart with a lively dance floor, diverse music, and a welcoming atmosphere on the scenic Shore.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Unique
- Relaxing
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Heritage Neighborhoods
- Sacred Sites
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Spiritual / Energy Spot
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
- Photowalk
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
