Inishmurray Monastic Island

Founded in the 6^th century by St. Molaise, or Laisrén (meaning lesser light), Inishmurray is a well-preserved (if partly restored) example on an ecclesiastical enclosure, with some of the best surviving stone cells, much like those found on Skellig Michael.

The monastic site is sprawled across the entire island, with the central area enclosed within drystone walls that are 3 metres in height. This enclosure, which takes the form of a cashel, consists of three churches (St. Molaise’s Chapel, Templemolaise, Templenatinny), beehive huts, leachts (small stone structures), cursing stones, and a graveyard.

Outside the enclosure there is a holy well, The Women’s Church, a graveyard, as well as multiple leachts which act as stations for pilgrims, particularly on the Feast of the Assumption.

A statue of St. Molaise that once existed on the island is now on display at the National Museum of Ireland.

Today, the island acts as a wildlife sanctuary for an array of bird species.

Visit Historic Environment Viewer for more information on Inishmurrary Ecclesiastical Island

Protect our Past - Click here to read about the importance of protecting our country’s unique heritage sites

This national monument is protected in accordance with the National Monuments Acts 1930 to 2014