Dervaig Cemetery Stones

Within the newer cemetery at Dervaig, a quiet village on Mull’s north-west coast, stand three unassuming stones that carry a much older tale. These are not typical gravestones of recent centuries, but rather ancient monoliths, likely prehistoric in origin, that have been incorporated into the sacred ground. Their presence within a modern burial site offers a fascinating juxtaposition, bridging millennia of human reverence for the deceased and the land.

The Dervaig Cemetery Stones are believed by some to be remnants of an earlier, larger ancient alignment or ceremonial site, perhaps predating the Christian cemetery itself. Their integration suggests a continuity of spiritual significance for this particular spot, where the sacred traditions of the past have seamlessly merged with later practices. They stand as a quiet testament to the enduring power of place and the layers of history that accumulate in one location.

Visiting these stones provides a contemplative experience, inviting reflection on the passage of time and the continuity of human experience from the Bronze Age to the present day. They offer a unique historical curiosity within the village, a subtle reminder of the deep roots and rich heritage that underpin even the most seemingly contemporary of Mull’s communities.