Beehives of Skellig Michael

Beehive Hut at Skellig Michael

Beehive Hut at Skellig Michael

The most eye catching part of the monastery of Skellig Michael are the beehive shaped structures. These are actually the dwelling places of the monks. Through the monks’ skill in cobelling, they laid one stone after another slowly forming a dome shape. The stones were laid in such a way that the bring moisture outside the hut. The result is a waterproof structure which has withstood the test of time. The huts have little doorways to let the occupants in. Understandably, the doors were quite small to keep away the element. I don’t know if there was ever a door here, if there was, it is long gone now.

Living Quarters of the Monks at Skellig Michael

Living Quarters of the Monks at Skellig Michael

There wasn’t anything inside the huts. It is possible that whatever they used here were all perishable items. Maybe this was in line to move way from worldliness. The huts can fit a a few people inside. This sort of communal living is probably typical of early Christian communities. The huts don’t let any light in apart from the door. So it is possible that it was very dark here at night. I can’t imagine living in a place like this especially with the winds as powerful as the ones they have here.

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