Plizio Visual Lab
Skellig Michael
Skellig Michael, also known as Great Skellig, is a precipitous rocky island in the Atlantic Ocean, located approximately 12 kilometers off the coast of County Kerry. Between the 6th and 8th centuries, a Gaelic Christian monastery was established near its summit, representing one of the best-preserved examples of early medieval religious architecture in Europe. The resident monks lived in dry-stone corbelled huts, known as beehive huts, which were constructed without mortar and have withstood harsh oceanic conditions for over a millennium. Accessing the monastic site requires climbing 618 stone steps hand-cut into the cliffside by the original inhabitants. Due to its exceptional universal value and unique historical significance, the site was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1996. Beyond its human history, the island serves as a vital breeding ground for diverse seabird populations, including Atlantic puffins and northern gannets. In recent years, Skellig Michael achieved global cinematic fame as a filming location for the Star Wars franchise, highlighting its dramatic landscape.
- Location: Ireland
- Top sights: Skelligs Lighthouse · Skellig Monastery · Sceilig Bheag Nature Reserve
- Nearby: Portmagee (17 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 9 | 9 | 9 | 10 | 12 | 14 | 15 | 15 | 15 | 13 | 11 | 10 |
| Rain mm | 159 | 129 | 109 | 87 | 96 | 92 | 108 | 115 | 114 | 141 | 160 | 169 |
📋 Practical info
Geography
Facts
- The island rises to a peak of 218 meters above the Atlantic Ocean.
- There are exactly 618 stone steps leading up to the monastery.
- Vikings raided the island in 823, yet the monastic life continued.
- The site was inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List in 1996.
- The monks moved to the mainland probably during the late 12th century.
- Skellig Michael was used as a key location for Star Wars Episodes VII and VIII.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights in the town Skellig Michael (4)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
How do you get to Skellig Michael?
When is the best time to visit?
How many steps must you climb?
Was Skellig Michael featured in Star Wars?
Are there toilets on the island?
Skellig Michael: where is it located?
Skellig Michael: what is there to see?
Skellig Michael: when is the best time to visit?
Skellig Michael: why is it worth visiting?
Nearby cities
