The Italian Chapel Suite

In early 1942, 500 Italian prisoners of war arrived on the island of Lamb Holm, Orkney, to work on the construction of the Churchill Barriers.  They requested a proper place of worship and were given two Nissen huts to convert. A labour of love, artistic skill, and craftsmanship transformed the two huts into a moving monument to faith and peace - The Italian Chapel (La Chiesetta Italiano di Orkney).


Renowned Skye musician Blair Douglas has for many years been fascinated by the story of the Chapel and composed a suite of music as his tribute to the dedication of the prisoners.  The music was performed and recorded in St Magnus Centre in Kirkwall; the twelve tracks include fiddle, viola, harp, cello, flute and accordion arrangements, two pieces by the City of Kirkwall Pipe Band and a beautiful "a Capella” song by The Mayfield Singers. A truly Orcadian experience!