Staffa, a name for Pillar Island, is an island of the Inner Hebrides in Argyll and Bute, Scotland. The Vikings gave it this name as its columnar basalt reminded them of their houses, which were built from vertically placed tree-logs. The island is entirely of volcanic origin. It lies about 10 kilometers (6.2 mi) west of the Isle of Mull. The area is 33 hectares (0.13 sq mi). |
Many famous personalities visited the island after it was discovered by Sir Joseph Banks in the 18 th century. He was fascinated by the natural beauty of the basalt columns and its main sea cavern, which Banks re-named 'Fingal's Cave'. |
Among the prominent people who visited the island were Queen Victoria and Felix Mendelssohn, who later brought further fame to the island by writing the island very beautiful and gave a name to its main sea cavern during the 18th and 19th centuries. The island came to prominence in the late 18th century after a visit by Hebrides Overture opus 26. |
The "pillars" are columnar joints. These develop due to slow cooling of basalt. The fractures are produced as it accommodates contraction as it cools due to the internal crystal-structure of basalt. Although this all happened underground, it got exposed as everything around it eroded away. |
The Ashikaga Flower Park is Truly a Sight to Behold
Only the Japanese could make a flower garden this stunning. Check it out!
15 Photos That’ll Make You Want to Book a Trip to Japan!
Japan is bursting with breathtakingly beautiful places, making it a definite must-see travel destination. Take a look at some of our favorite picks.
Discover How Truly Stunning Our Planet Is in 22 Pictures
Our planet is full of wonderful spots. Check out how truly stunning it is in these 22 photos.
Feast Your Eyes: 50 Stunning Sceneries From 50 US States!
The US is full of magnificent places, in each and every state...
Scotland Is One of the Most Beautiful Places on Earth
Scotland, as these 16 photos will prove, truly is a place of remarkable beauty.
10 Beautiful Landscapes that Make Austria a Traveler's Gem
10 incredible photos that will make you want to book your next flight to Austria.
Take in China's Spectacular Oriental Beauty - from Above
Get ready to fly high over China's most amazing landscapes.
Uncovering the Past: 16 Fascinating Archaeological Finds
Take a look at some of the most fascinating archeological finds of recent times.
10 Wonderful Places to Go Whale Watching
If you wish to encounter whales, here are the top 10 destinations to do so
These Past Architectural Designs Were Ahead of Their Time
Architecture in the 20th century was so unique! Here are some amazing examples.
10 Gorgeous US Towns that Look Like They Belong in Europe!
Here are 10 little-known places so hauntingly beautiful, the moment you enter, you'll be sure you've set foot in Europe.
12 Must-See Sights in the Galicia, Spain
Today we will reveal to you what awaits you there and which 12 places should not be missed for those visiting Galicia.
Take a Walk Among 11 of London's Greatest Sights
Join us on this virtual journey, accompanied by informative explanations, and get a taste of the wonders that London has to offer.
Las Vegas Isn't Just About Gambling as These Places Prove
Planning a visit to Las Vegas? If so, you must really visit these stunning places.
The Most Beautiful Places Time Has Forgotten...
These gorgeous places are surprisingly abandoned, which makes them even more mysterious and beautiful.
This Travel Log Will Take You Through Egypt's Wonders
This short travelogue will take you through some of the most amazing Pharaonic sights of Egypt.
The Most Gorgeous Train Rides in the USA...
Loosen your grip on the steering wheel, these rail-road trips will give you the opportunity to take in sights that the interstate doesn't deliver.
14 Small Towns and Cities That Reveal Austria's True Charm
Get to know Austria's lesser-known cities and towns. They may be small but they tell the true story of the beautiful country in their humble and wonderful way.
10 Majestic Medieval Castles You Have to See
If you ever wanted to know what it feels like to live like royalty, all you need to do is visit one of these amazing places.
10 Jaw-Dropping Routes You Need to Add to Your Travel List!
The world is full of scenic landscapes, and trekking along these routes is undoubtedly the best way to let them awe you!
Why Train Tickets Are so Expensive in America
Did you know traveling by train in the U.S. is often more expensive than flying? Find out why.
Experience the Thrill of Riding the World's Fastest Train
Japan's upcoming maglev trains are supposed to be the world’s fastest. But are they really worth the hype?
12 of the Most Unusual Border Crossings in the World
Borders are usually thought of as boring, dreary places, but that thinking definitely doesn't apply to these highly unusual border crossings around the world.
Tired of Touring the Same Cities? Check Out THESE Pearls!
We always consider major capitals as great destinations to visit, however there are other towns and cities that are wonderful, yet less obvious. Here are 12.
See 13 Of the Most Magical and Breathtaking Sites in Vietnam
After visiting Vietnam, a country of natural beauty, fascinating history, and authentic cultural heritage, I compiled a list of 13 must see sites!
History’s Oldest Buildings That Have Stood for Centuries
Here's a look at some of the oldest surviving man-made structures on our planet that have a fascinating past.
The Spectacular Story Behind the Creation of Lady Liberty
One of the most iconic creation in all of history, the Statue of Liberty has an interesting story behind it.
20 Reasons You Can't Say No to Visiting Turkey!
This magnificent country is full of breathtaking wonders - take a peek at these beautiful photos and be inspired!
The World's Most Incredible Toy Train Journeys
Experience the joy of these iconic toy train rides.
10 Caves in the US You Have To Add to Your Must Visit List
These magical caves are a must see - weather you're an extreme lover or just looking for a relaxed stroll, these natural wonders have something for anyone.
5 Tips to Protect Yourself Against Thieves and Pickpockets
How to frustrate pickpockets and avoid getting robbed of your money and valuables abroad.
See the Sights of Europe With Our 20-Country Collection!
This collection of 20 countries will let you you drop in on each of them through the posts below and see what is most gorgeous about that country.
15 Magnificent Royal Residences From All Around the World
In this article, we’ll show you 15 of the most magnificent and extravagant royal palaces around the world, many of which are open to visitors
10 Majestic, Ornate Temples in Thailand Worth Visiting
If you're curious to know more, we're talking about the top ten most beautiful and impressive temples hidden in Thailand!
These 24 Places Should Definitely Be on Your Bucket List
Our world is filled with beautiful places that you should definitely visit. The 24 places in this article should definitely be added to your bucket list!
The World is Full of Unique Places, But These 8 Stand Out
The world is full of intriguing places, some of which are incredibly unique. Here are 8 of the most fascinating ones.
This Isn't Just a Mountain, It's Also An Incredible Temple
This may be the only mountain with so many religious structures on it. Together with the natural beauty of the place, it becomes the sight of a lifetime.
16 Stunning Award-Winning Images from Around the World
Check out the amazing winning images from the iPhone Photography Awards 2023.
These Murals Change the Way People Look at Hospitals
Italian artist Silvio Irilli adds color to hospitals with his delightful murals.
A City of Ice: Harbin Ice Sculpture Festival on Camera
15 photos of the annual Harbin International Ice and Snow Sculpture festival in 2020
How Grocery Stores Collect Your Data Without You Knowing
You are sharing much more data than you know at the local supermarket.
Titanic Sub: What Really Caused a 'Catastrophic' Implosion
The Titan sub tragedy has left everyone shaken. But what exactly happened to it?
10 Must-See Sights in the Moroccan City of Marrakesh
To have a perfect vacation in Marrakesh, the following ten places are highly recommended.
14 Cool and Interesting Things From Around the World
Check out these cool and interesting things from around the world that will leave you surprised.
Two Weeks of Spanish Magic: The Recommended Itinerary
If you've always wanted to see all that Spain has to offer, this itinerary will make for a true full of opportunities to make good memories!
21 Oddly Beautiful Street Scenes Caught on Camera
Here are some wacky and amusing photos from the "Street Photographers" Instagram page.