The Book of Kells

The Book of Kells is a medieval manuscript of great historical significance first to Ireland but also to Christianity as a whole.  Believed to have been written around 800 AD, this work is by the pen of Columban monks, a community originally located at Iona Abbey, on a small island off the Western coast of Scotland.  After a Viking attack laid waste to Iona Abbey leaving nearly 70 monks dead, They were, however, the community moved to Kells, Ireland.   While there is still debate as to where the Book of Kells was written, it is generally agreed that at least some of it was written in Iona and the manuscript  completed in Kells.  It is a national treasure and tourist attraction in Ireland but now it has been digitized and is available for our perusal for free online here.  Here is more for your viewing pleasure.  The artwork within the Book of Kells includes one of the oldest European depictions of the Madonna and Childand the Chi Rho page is considered to be the most famous page of Medieval art. Other images feature the symbols of the Four Evangelists, an early portrait of Christ, and even some of the earliest depictions of Gospel Narratives. These focus on the Passion, showing the arrest of Christ and His temptation by the Devil.   Enjoy!!