The Italian Chapel - beautifully decorated wartime chapel created by Italian prisoners of war on Lamb Holm in Orkney.

The Italian Chapel on Lamb Holm is one of Orkney's most distinctive and moving historic attractions. The chapel was created during the Second World War from two Nissen huts by Italian prisoners of war who had been brought to Orkney to work on the Churchill Barriers. What began as two simple military huts was transformed into an ornate place of worship that remains a remarkable testament to creativity, craftsmanship and faith.

Following the sinking of HMS Royal Oak in Scapa Flow in October 1939, work began to construct defensive barriers protecting the eastern approaches to the naval anchorage. Hundreds of Italian prisoners of war were later accommodated at Camp 60 on Lamb Holm while working on the project. After the camp's priest, Father Giacobazzi, requested a place of worship, permission was granted to join two Nissen huts together and create a chapel.

Central to the transformation was Italian artist Domenico Chiocchetti, assisted by fellow prisoners including blacksmith Giuseppe Palumbi and cement worker Domenico Buttapasta. Chiocchetti decorated the interior with elaborate paintings, while the image of the Madonna and Child above the altar was inspired by a small prayer card given to him by his mother before he left Italy. The prisoners used their skills and limited available materials to turn the otherwise functional buildings into the beautifully detailed chapel visitors see today.

The chapel has continued to symbolise the lasting friendship between Orkney and Chiocchetti's home town of Moena in Italy. Restoration work has helped preserve its remarkable painted interior, including work by Rome-based restoration artist Antonella Papa. Replacement Stations of the Cross were also carved in Moena after three original plaques were stolen in 2014, and measures including CCTV and custodians have since been introduced to help protect the historic building.

Today, The Italian Chapel is one of Orkney's best-loved visitor attractions and provides a fascinating connection with the islands' wartime history. Visitors can spend time appreciating its intricate interior while learning the extraordinary story of the men who created it. A small illustrated booklet explaining the chapel and its construction is also available in English, Italian and German for a small donation.

Find directions easily using Google Maps.