Arches at St Magnus Cathedral, Kirkwall, Orkney

Kirkwall's St Magnus Cathedral is Britain's most northerly cathedral. The cathedral was founded in 1137 by Viking Earl Rognvald during a time when Orkney was still under the rule of the Norse Earls of Orkney. The cathedral was named and built in honour of St Magnus, who was Earl Rognvald's martyred uncle.   Between the late 12th century and the 14th century, the cathedral was extended. During these later renovations, the Gothic pointed arches were introduced.