Inishmurray
The island of Inishmurray is simply spectacular offering stunning views and holding the best kept monastic settlement in Western Europe.
Trips to Inishmurray Island
The island of Inishmurray is simply spectacular offering stunning views and holding the best kept monastic settlement in Western Europe.
The history of the island is revered by the locals. St Molaise founded a Christian Monastery on Inishmurray in the 6th century, the remains of which are remarkably intact to this day. This remote and mystical island, four miles from the coast of Sligo, excels all others for its state of preservation as an early Christian site, for its wild scenery and as a wildlife sanctuary.
History of Inishmurray
The island of Inishmurray is located approximately seven kilometers off the mainland of County Sligo.
Inishmurray was reportedly inhabited from the sixth century until 1948, when most people left the island to pursue the bigger town and city life in Sligo and further afield with emigration to the United States and England being common. However, what Inishmurray lacked in resources it more than made up for in community spirit. Islanders of Inishmurray reported that it was a close-knit community where neighbors looked out for one another and true Irish hospitality was extended to all who both lived on and visited the island.
The history of the island is revered by the locals. St Molaise founded a Christian Monastery on Inishmurray in the 6th century, the remains of which are remarkably intact to this day. This remote and mystical island, four miles from the coast of Sligo, excels all others for its state of preservation as an early Christian site, for its wild scenery, and as a wildlife sanctuary.
Trips to Inishmurray can be tailored to individual or group needs. Depending on the group, some sea fishing and sightseeing can be organised according to the group needs. Prices negotiable according to how many people are in the group, or individuals wanting to join another group
The Ruins
Many of the ruins located on Inishmurray lie within what is known as ‘the cashel’. The ‘cashel’ wall was more than likely built in the ninth century to protect and guard the island against Vikings.
Life on the Island
Up until the early twelfth century, Inishmurray was colonised by Monks. Subsequently to this, it became inhabited by local people. The main economic venture on the island at this time resided in poteen or ‘whiskey’ brewing as the islanders called it. The poteen was brewed on Inishmurray and sold on the mainland. Inishmurray became known for its poteen across the North West of Ireland.
The beautiful and majestic scenery that surrounds the island offers breath-taking views and imaginative experiences for both young and old. Immerse yourself in the history of the Islanders and walk among the settlement as they would have.
On the shores
To stand on the shores of Inishmurray and hear the waves lapping, you can feel the history and ambiance of the island seep into your bones and into your heart.
Sea Fishing Sligo offers unique and informative tours to one of Sligo’s most beautiful and historic gems- the Island of Inishmurray.
