Skellig Michael is a rugged and remote island located off the southwestern coast of Ireland. It is renowned for its unique historical and natural significance, particularly its well-preserved monastic settlement perched on its steep cliffs. Skellig Michael, along with its neighboring island Little Skellig, is designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Key features and information about Skellig Michael:

1. Location:
   • Skellig Michael is situated about 12 kilometers (7.5 miles) off the coast of County Kerry in southwestern Ireland. It is part of the Skellig Islands group, which also includes Little Skellig.
2. Geography and Topography:
   • The island is characterized by its dramatic and steep cliffs, rising up to 218 meters (714 feet) above sea level. The rugged terrain makes it challenging to access and contributed to its historical significance as a place of refuge.
3. Monastic Settlement:
   • The most notable feature of Skellig Michael is its ancient monastic settlement, which dates back to the 6th century. The monastery is perched on a narrow, rocky ledge near the island’s summit. It consists of beehive-shaped stone huts, a church, and other structures.
4. Beehive Huts:
   • The monastic complex includes a series of well-preserved beehive huts, which are rounded stone structures with corbelled roofs. These huts served as residences for the monks, providing shelter in the harsh and exposed environment.
5. St. Michael’s Church:
   • St. Michael’s Church is a small stone church located within the monastic settlement. It is one of the best-preserved early Christian churches in Ireland.
6. Graveyard and Cross Slabs:
   • The graveyard on Skellig Michael contains ancient graves and cross slabs, some of which feature intricate carvings. The cross slabs are believed to have religious and symbolic significance.
7. Access and Pilgrimage:
   • Access to Skellig Michael is limited and challenging due to its remote location and unpredictable weather conditions. In the past, monks and pilgrims undertook a challenging sea journey to reach the island, emphasizing its spiritual significance.
8. Bird Sanctuaries:
   • Skellig Michael and Little Skellig are important bird sanctuaries, hosting large colonies of seabirds. Little Skellig is particularly known for its large population of gannets.
9. UNESCO World Heritage Site:
   • Skellig Michael, along with Little Skellig, was inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1996, recognizing its outstanding universal value as a cultural and natural site.
10. Star Wars Filming Location:
    • Skellig Michael gained international fame when it served as a filming location for the Star Wars film “Star Wars: Episode VII – The Force Awakens” and its sequel “Star Wars: Episode VIII – The Last Jedi.”
11. Conservation Challenges:
    • The fragile and exposed nature of Skellig Michael poses conservation challenges. Efforts are made to balance the preservation of the site with sustainable tourism practices.

Visiting Skellig Michael is a unique and awe-inspiring experience, offering a glimpse into the history and spiritual significance of this remote monastic settlement. The island’s natural beauty and cultural heritage make it a destination of interest for historians, archaeologists, and nature enthusiasts alike.