Monastery of Skellig Michael, Early Christian monastery on Skellig Michael island, Ireland.
Skellig Michael monastery is an early Christian monastery situated on a steep rocky island off the Irish coast. The complex features beehive huts, churches, and a cemetery located on a high plateau that can only be reached by ancient stone staircases climbing from sea level.
The monastery was founded between the 6th and 8th centuries and survived Viking raids in the 9th century. Monks eventually abandoned the island in the 13th century due to the harsh living conditions.
The monastery shows early Irish Christian building methods using dry-stone techniques that kept structures standing for over 1,500 years. The beehive huts and simple chapel define the site and reveal how monks adapted their faith to this harsh island setting.
Access is possible only during the May to October season and depends heavily on weather conditions. You will need to climb around 600 uneven stone steps, so wear sturdy footwear and proceed carefully, especially if it is windy or damp.
The monks lived in complete isolation and fed themselves by fishing and collecting seabird eggs from the cliff edges. This method of survival on one of Europe's harshest locations reveals extraordinary perseverance and spiritual dedication.
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