On the Eastern side of Scapa Flow there were four channels leading into the Naval anchorage.They were blocked with sunken ships and it was considered attack from that direction of the sea was impossible. However during a high tide in October 1939 a German Submarine did manage to breach the defenses from that side, sinking the battleship Royal Oak. Over 800 men perished
and the Fleet was moved out of Scapa Flow. Churchill then ordered the Barriers to be built before they could return.

Italian prisoners of war captured during the North African Campaign were sent to Orkney to constructthe barriers. Camp 60 consisted of about 13 or more basic Nissen Huts which the prisoners started to brighten up. Having done so they realized they had nowhere to worship and the idea of the Italian Chapel was born. No matter what your beliefs are this place is well worth a visit, it is indeed the miracle of Camp 60.