Kilmory Knap Chapel

Kilmory Knap Chapel is a typically simple rectangular Highland church. It was  built in the 1200s and is listed as a dependency of the parish church of Knapdale at Keills in the 1300s.

There was probably an earlier church on this site. Seven early Christian cross-marked stones were found here, probably used as grave markers. It is likely the churchyard around the chapel has a long history of burial. 

The majority of the collection are late medieval West Highland grave-slabs. Many of these commemorate members of the MacMillan clan, who were most closely associated with Knapdale in the Middle Ages.

The West Highland grave-slabs here date to between the 1300s and 1500s. They represent an art style that flourished in late-medieval Scotland, appearing on tapestry, wood, metal and stone. 

Among the grave slabs are five effigies. They include two warriors depicted wearing their armour and armed with spears and swords. Elsewhere, you can see two clerics in prayer and what could be a fashionably dressed nobleman.

The grave-slabs feature a range of motifs, such as swords, ships, animals, monsters, combs, and tools. Of particular interest are the stones which are inscribed with the names of craftsmen, suggesting that these individuals were of high status in their community.

MacMillan’s Cross, dating to the 1400s, is the most distinctive monument at Kilmory Knap. It was erected for Alexander MacMillan, the keeper of nearby Castle Sween.

The disc-headed cross stands almost 3m high and it is splendidly decorated. The intricate carvings include a hunting scene depicting three hounds attacking a stag while a huntsman approaches. You can also spot a small leaping animal biting its own tail.

More religiously, the cross features a carving on the crucified Christ, flanked by St John and the Virgin Mary.