Some time between the sixth and eight centuries, a monastery was constructed on the broad northeastern summit of the island. During the lifetime of the monastery a hermitage, one of the most daring architectural expressions of early Irish monasticism, was also created on the narrow ledges just below the summit of the South Peak (218 metres above sea level), the highest point on the island.

Throughout the medieval period, veneration of the site continued and in time, it became renowned throughout Europe as a place of pilgrimage.

Two lighthouses built in the nineteenth century assisted with the safe passage of shipping around the southwest coast of Ireland and one continues in operation today.

This section covers information on the monastery, the hermitage, the lighthouses, archaeological excavations and conservation works.