Since the mid-1980’s excavations have formed an integral part of the conservation works carried out on the island. In 1986-7 excavation work concentrated on the Small Oratory Terrace and within the Large Oratory. After this initial work, excavations carried out in 1990 concentrated on the Upper Monk’s Garden and the east entrance to the Lower Monk’s Garden.

Between 1993 and 2004 work was carried out in the Lower Monk’s Garden, to the south of the Large Oratory,  in the area to the east of the Monk’s Graveyard and at the western cistern west of the inner enclosure. The East and North Steps were repaired under archaeological supervision during this period.

Between 2004 and 2008 excavations concentrated on the South Peak and several terraces were investigated including the Oratory and Garden Terraces. During these excavations extensive areas of monastic quarrying were identified. An earlier route to the summit was also discovered.

Further information on the excavations is contained in the Management Plan which is available on this website.