Mainland, Orkney
The Mainland, also known as Hrossey and Pomona, is the main island of Orkney, Scotland. Both of Orkney's burghs, Kirkwall and Stromness, lie on the island, which is also the heart of Orkney's ferry and air connections.
| Scottish Gaelic name | Mòr-thìr |
|---|---|
| Scots name | Mainland |
| Old Norse name | Megenland/Hrossey |
| Meaning of name | Norse for 'mainland' or 'island of horses' |
Map of Orkney Islands, mainland highlighted | |
| Location | |
| OS grid reference | HY350158 |
| Physical geography | |
| Island group | Orkney |
| Area | 52,325 hectares (202 sq mi) |
| Area rank | 6 |
| Highest elevation | Mid Hill 271 metres (889 ft) |
| Administration | |
| Sovereign state | United Kingdom |
| Country | Scotland |
| Council area | Orkney Islands Council |
| Demographics | |
| Population | 17,162 |
| Population rank | 3 |
| Population density | 32.80 people/km2 |
| Largest settlement | Kirkwall |
| References | |
Seventy-five per cent of Orkney's population live on the island, which is more densely populated than the other islands of the archipelago. The lengthy history of the island's occupation has provided numerous important archaeological sites and the sandstone bedrock provides a platform for fertile farmland. There is an abundance of wildlife, especially seabirds.
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