The Italian Chapel Orkney: A Unique Piece of History
2024-11-19
Orkney is home to many historical landmarks, but the Italian Chapel Orkney is an impressive place that you cannot miss. Built during World War II by Italian prisoners of war (POWs), this small but beautiful chapel is a symbol of hope, creativity, and faith in the most challenging times.
The Story Behind the Chapel
After German U-boats attacked the naval base at Scapa Flow during World War II, Prime Minister Winston Churchill ordered barriers to be built to block the four eastern entrances. In 1942, hundreds of Italian soldiers were captured and sent to Orkney. The Italian prisoners, skilled in building and engineering, were given the job of constructing the Churchill Barriers using large concrete blocks to connect the smaller islands.
The Birth of the Italian Chapel
With Italy under German occupation, the Italian prisoners were deeply concerned about their families in their homeland. While living in a camp on Lamb Holm, they requested a place to worship. Their wish was granted on September 30, 1943, with the arrival of Father Gioachino Giacobazzi, known as Padre Giacomo. After Father Giacobazzi's request, it was decided to convert two joined Nissen huts into a chapel.
Construction
Among the Italians in Camp 60 was an artist named Domenico Chiocchetti, who led the transformation. He was supported by tradesmen such as Giuseppe Palumbi, a blacksmith, and Domenico Buttapasta, a cement worker and many other soldiers. However, Chiocchetti was responsible for the design and interior artwork of the chapel.
Domenico Chiocchetti
Domenico Chiocchetti was born on May 15, 1910, in Moena. Despite his dream of becoming an artist, his family’s poverty prevented him from attending art college. Instead, he trained as an apprentice with the church to become a church painter. There, he learned the skill of painting flat surfaces to look like raised architectural features, such as pillars and ceiling decorations. Chiocchetti used this talent to great effect in creating the stunning interior of the Italian Chapel Orkney.
Craftsmanship and Artistry
The Italian Chapel is truly special because of its interior. Under Chiocchetti’s guidance, the Italians transformed simple huts into a stunning place of worship using basic materials like concrete, plasterboard, and leftover metal for the altar, walls, and detailed paintings.
The chapel features delicate paintings of angels, flowers, and religious symbols. The ceiling, painted to resemble stone arches, gives the small space a grand appearance, while the painted glass windows filter in soft, colourful light, creating a serene atmosphere.
Chiocchetti carried a small prayer card of the Madonna and Child, given by his mother, which inspired the painting above the altar. Recognising Chiocchetti’s talent, Camp Commander Major Buckland allowed him to enhance the chapel’s beauty further.
A Symbol of Peace
Though built during a time of war, the Italian Chapel has come to represent peace and reconciliation. After the war, many of the Italian POWs, including Chiocchetti, returned home. However, in later years, some of them came back to Orkney to help with the restoration of the chapel, ensuring that their creation would last for future generations.
War Memorial with St George Sculpture
Before you leave the Italian Chapel Orkney, take a moment to visit the war memorial located at the back of the car park. This statue, crafted by Chiocchetti from barbed wire and concrete, symbolises the triumph of good over evil, reflecting the victory over the harshness of war. It features St George, the patron saint of England, depicted in armour and slaying a dragon – a symbol of bravery and overcoming challenges.
Visiting the Italian Chapel Orkney
Today, the chapel is a Category A listed building still used for worship and a popular tourist attraction. Visitors come from all over the world to see this extraordinary symbol of faith and creativity and reconciliation in the British Isles.
The Italian Chapel is located on Lamb Holm on the southern Orkney Islands. It’s easy to reach from the mainland of Orkney, and the serene atmosphere makes it a great spot for reflection.
The Chapel is about 19 kilometres (a 15-minute drive) from Kirkwall, 30 kilometres (35 minutes) from Stromness Harbour, and approximately 42 kilometres (45 minutes) from Skara Brae, one of Orkney’s famous prehistoric sites.
The Italian Chapel in Orkney is generally open to visitors year-round, though specific opening hours may vary depending on the season. Typically, it is open from around 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM during the spring and summer months, with shorter hours in the autumn and winter. It's always a good idea to check locally or visit the Orkney tourism website for the most up-to-date information on opening times before your visit.
Conclusion
Visiting the Italian Chapel in Orkney is a truly special experience. Tucked away on the small island of Lamb Holm, this beautifully crafted chapel is a reminder of resilience and creativity during difficult times. As you step inside, you'll be struck by the intricate paintings and delicate details, all created by Italian prisoners of war using simple materials. The peaceful atmosphere invites reflection, making it a must-see for anyone exploring Orkney.
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