St Magnus Cathedral belongs to the people of Orkney, a unique historical and legal reality that sets the cathedral apart from almost every other cathedral in Britain.
Through centuries of change (Norse rule, Scottish crown, Reformation, and modern renewal) St Magnus Cathedral has remained a constant presence: a place of worship, reflection, and community.
King James III of Scotland granted a charter to the City and Royal Burgh of Kirkwall in 1486. The charter transferred ownership of the St Magnus Cathedral to “Provost Bailies Dean of Guild Treasurer Council and Community thereof.” From that point on, St Magnus Cathedral didn’t belong to the church but to the people of Kirkwall.
Today the responsibility for its custodianship and maintenance is conferred upon Orkney Islands Council, which inherited the role of the old burgh authority. This means the cathedral is truly held in trust for the people of Orkney, while the Church of Scotland uses it for worship.
The Society of The Friends of St Magnus Cathedral was established in 1958 to support Orkney Islands Council in the care and preservation of Orkney’s historic Cathedral. It was formed by local civic and church leaders who recognised the need for dedicated fundraising and community support to help maintain this remarkable medieval building for future generations. Its work continues today.
