Skellig Michael, Republic of Ireland

Skellig Michael is a rugged, remote island located about 12 kilometers off the southwestern coast of County Kerry in Ireland. It is renowned for its well-preserved monastic settlement, which dates back to the early Christian period. Here are some key points about Skellig Michael:

1. Location: Skellig Michael is part of the Skellig Islands, with the larger of the two being Skellig Michael (also known as Great Skellig). Little Skellig is the smaller adjacent island and is known for its seabird colonies.
2. Geography: The island is a steep and rocky outcrop with a maximum elevation of about 218 meters (714 feet). Its cliffs rise dramatically from the Atlantic Ocean, making it a challenging and distinctive landmark.
3. Early Christian Monastery: Skellig Michael is famous for the monastic settlement established by Irish monks, possibly as early as the 6th century. The monks chose this isolated and inhospitable location for its seclusion and spiritual significance.
4. Beehive Huts: The monastic settlement includes a collection of beehive-shaped stone huts, oratories, and other structures that served as the monks’ living quarters, places of worship, and storage areas. The construction is dry stone, without the use of mortar.
5. St. Michael’s Church: The main oratory on Skellig Michael is known as St. Michael’s Church. It is a small, stone-built structure with a conical roof and is one of the most iconic features of the island.
6. Historical Significance: The monks on Skellig Michael lived a harsh and ascetic lifestyle, relying on fishing and the cultivation of a small area of arable land. The monastery continued to be occupied for several centuries, and the last monks likely left in the 12th century.
7. UNESCO World Heritage Site: Skellig Michael, along with the nearby Skellig Islands, was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1996. The site is recognized for its outstanding universal value and cultural significance.
8. Birdlife: In addition to its historical importance, Skellig Michael is home to a diverse range of seabirds, including puffins, gannets, and kittiwakes. The island’s cliffs provide nesting sites for these birds.
9. Filming Location: Skellig Michael gained additional international attention when it was used as a filming location for the Star Wars film “Star Wars: The Force Awakens” (2015) and its sequel “Star Wars: The Last Jedi” (2017). The island served as the location for the fictional planet Ahch-To, where Luke Skywalker is found.
10. Accessibility: Due to its exposed location and challenging landing conditions, access to Skellig Michael is highly weather-dependent. Boats typically operate from May to October, weather permitting, and visitors need to climb a steep set of stone steps to reach the monastery.
11. Conservation Challenges: Skellig Michael faces conservation challenges due to its exposure to the elements, tourism impact, and the fragility of its archaeological and natural features. Conservation efforts are ongoing to ensure the preservation of the site.

Skellig Michael’s combination of natural beauty, historical significance, and cultural resonance make it a unique and cherished destination, attracting visitors, historians, and nature enthusiasts alike.