Monastery of Skellig Michael, Early Christian monastery on Skellig Michael island, Ireland.
The monastery complex includes stone beehive huts, churches, and a cemetery situated on a steep plateau accessed by three staircases from sea level.
Established between the 6th and 8th centuries, the monastery endured Viking attacks in 824 AD before its abandonment in the 13th century.
The monastery represents early Irish Christian architecture with its dry-stone construction techniques that have sustained structures for over 1,500 years.
Visitors must climb 618 uneven steps during the permitted season from May to October, with access dependent on weather conditions.
The monks who lived here sustained themselves through fishing and collecting bird eggs while maintaining religious practices in complete isolation.
Location: County Kerry
GPS coordinates: 51.77111,-10.54056
Latest update: March 3, 2025 12:55
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