Overlooking the Sound of Mull, the pretty town of Tobermory is the Isle of Mull's charming capital. It was founded as Mull's capital in 1788, primarily as a fishing port. Its name comes from the Gaelic 'Tobar Mhoire', meaning "Mary's well". This refers to a well found near the town, which was dedicated to the Virgin Mary. There is famously reputed to be the wreck of a Spanish galleon somewhere in the mud at the bottom of the bay. The ship was apparently part of the defeated Armada of 1588 and was fleeing the English fleet when she anchored in Tobermory to take on provisions.
Following a dispute over payment the ship caught fire, which caused the gunpowder to explode. According to the legend, she was supposed to have been carrying millions of gold coins when she went to the bottom but no-one has ever managed to find any significant treasure, or even remains dating back to that time. This beautiful little town has become known for its brightly-painted houses, strung out along the sheltered bay - which has attracted film-makers and tourists alike.
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