Insular Bookshelf

List of Books

An Cathach
Book of Armagh
Book of Dun Cow
Faddan More Psalter
Lindisfarne Gospels
Book of Kells
Book of Durrow

MacRegol Gospels
Mulling Gospels
Stowe Missal
Ussher Gospels

carpet page of the Gospel of St. Luke, Lindisfarne Gospels. Courtesy of the British Library Board

A place to explore some of the world's oldest and most beautiful books.

Books created in the insular style were produced by Irish monks throughout the British Isles in the early medieval period. Isolated from the Roman Empire and other monastic traditions, influenced by Celtic and Anglo-Saxon culture, a distinctive style of art and script emerged.

Our aim is to further the enjoyment and study of insular books through this collection of images, information, stories and resources. Learn more about the insular book production and history in our FAQ section or browse the list of books on the left.

Insular Bookshelf is still growing--please bookmark us and visit again soon!