Muckle Flugga
Muckle Flugga is a small rocky island north of Unst in the Shetland Islands, Scotland. It is often described as the northernmost point of the British Isles,[1] but the smaller islet of Out Stack is actually farther north. It used to be the northernmost inhabited island, but forfeited that accolade when the lighthouse was automated and the last residents moved out.
The name comes from Old Norse, Mikla Flugey, meaning "large steep-sided island". It has frequently been noted on lists of unusual place names.[2]
According to local folklore, Muckle Flugga and nearby Out Stack were formed when two giants, Herma and Saxa, fell in love with the same mermaid. They fought over her by throwing large rocks at each other, one of which became Muckle Flugga. To get rid of them, the mermaid offered to marry whichever one would follow her to the North Pole. They both followed her and drowned, as neither could swim.
Muckle Flugga Lighthouse is located on the island.
References
- ↑ "Northern Lighthouse Board". Retrieved 28 May 2013.
- ↑ Parker, Quentin (2010). Welcome to Horneytown, North Carolina, Population: 15: An insider's guide to 201 of the world's weirdest and wildest places. Adams Media. pp. xi.
External links
- Shetlopedia.com - Muckle Flugga
- Map sources for Muckle Flugga
| Inhabited islands |  | |
|---|---|---|
| Other islands | ||
| Towns and villages | ||
| Points of interest |
| |
Coordinates: 60°51′13″N 0°53′18″W / 60.85369°N 0.88837°W