Parrot Time Magazine

This ancient structure was the seat of kings for several hundred years. After an invasion by the Normans in 1101, this ancient fortress was donated to the Church, who then converted the building into a cathedral. Over time, as parts of it eroded away, newer sections were added on, so now few remnants of the original structure remain, leaving mainly buildings built during the 12th and 13th centuries.

The mythology of the place involves Satan being banished from the area by the local saint. It is said that Satan was so furious at this that he bit off part of a mountain and spat it out. Where it landed, some 20 miles away, became the location for this great structure.

The oldest and tallest of the buildings is a well preserved round tower which was built using the dry stone method (no mortar). For safety reasons, some modern conservationists have filled in parts of the tower with mortar to reinforce it.

The chapel portion was built between 1127 and 1134 and is very sophisticated, unlike other churches of the time and region. It has two towers on either side and a barrel-vaulted roof. Inside are some of the best preserved frescoes from the time. The cathedral part itself was built over the course of 35 years, starting in 1235.

The structure was damaged during a series of wars in the region during the 17th century and many important religious artefacts were stolen or destroyed. Today, what remains of the place is open to tourists.

Can you name this city and country?

Last month's answer: Kirkjubøur, Faroe Islands