Rodel
In Rodel, right at the southern tip of Harris is the fascinating medieval St Clements Church. It is a great place to check out the intricate and symbolic carving of the period. Dating back to the early 16th Century, the church is very closely tied to the McLeod Clan and contains many finely carved grave slabs and two carved tombs. The most impressive of these is the grave of Alistair Crotach (or humpback), considered by many to be the finest example of medieval carving in the Western Isles. It shows Alistair in full armour, with a large panel above showing many scenes from the bible in exquisite detail.
The internal walls are detailed with the sparkling black rock found locally, which adds to the heavy atmosphere inside the church. On the outside there are a number of fairly graphic carvings including a sheil na gig (graphic female figure), and a gentleman who seems to be quite happy with himself! The church was restored by the Countess of Dunmore in 1873 and it is said she had never taken the trouble to walk around the back until the work was complete, when she did she was outraged to find this character there in all his glory and had one of her men sent round to shoot the offending anatomy off!
There are many interesting graves to be found in the churchyard which give a great insight into the names and occupations of the local people. Most would still be familiar locally to this day.
It always gives amusement to visitors that while the church is kept locked, the key is attached to the outside of the door on a short length of chain!
What we do at St Clements Church:
- History and legends
- Walk along the rugged coastline
- Snigger at some of the carvings!
Tours that may visit Rodel:
Other places that may be of interest are:
