Skellig Michael rises like a pyramid from the wild Atlantic Ocean. Although it looks uninhabitable, monks lived here for centuries. Recently, it gained global fame as a Star Wars filming location. However, its ancient history is even more fascinating. Because the island is hard to reach, few people know its secrets. Therefore, these facts will transport you to Ireland's edge.
Skellig Michael
Skellig Michael rises 715 feet straight out of the Atlantic Ocean. Consequently, it looks terrifyingly steep from the water.
Monks built a monastery near the summit in the 6th century. They sought extreme isolation to feel closer to God.
Star Wars fans recognize this island as Luke Skywalker’s hideout. In fact, The Force Awakens filmed key scenes here.
Visitors must climb 618 slippery stone steps to reach the top. Therefore, the climb requires good physical fitness.
Puffins flock to the island every spring to breed. These colorful birds build thousands of nests in the grassy slopes.
Surprisingly, the monks lived in beehive-shaped stone huts. Because they used no mortar, the stones hold themselves together perfectly.
Vikings attacked Skellig Michael several times during the 9th century. Despite the danger, the monks remained on the rock.
The island is a UNESCO World Heritage Site today. This status protects its unique history and fragile ecosystem.
There is no fresh water source on the rock. Thus, the monks built ingenious cisterns to collect rain.
A second island sits nearby called Little Skellig. It hosts one of the world’s largest gannet colonies.
Skellig Michael was a place of pilgrimage for centuries. Devout Catholics traveled here to repent for their sins.
Two lighthouses stand on the Atlantic side of the island. Engineers built them in the 1820s to guide ships.
The weather here changes incredibly fast. Therefore, boats often cancel trips due to rough seas.
Legend says Saint Patrick chased the last snakes here. He supposedly banished them from this cliff into the ocean.
Finally, Skellig Michael limits visitors to protect the ruins. Only 180 people land here per day.
