Scattery Island

County Clare

St Senan founded a monastery here in the 6C.

There is an oratory (St Senan’s) reputed to be where, in an adjacent small building, the saint lies buried. Just outside the oratory is a 10C Cross Slab.

The brow of the island is called the ‘Hill of the Angels’, so-called after the assistance given to St Senan by St Michael to get rid of a monster. On it are the remains of another church.

The large Cathedral of St Mary has undergone much rebuilding but parts of it go back to early times. Next to it is a 12C Romanesque church.

The Church of the Dead, near the sea, dates from 14/15C.

The Round Tower is the tallest in Ireland measuring 120 feet and is the only tower to have its entrance at ground level. Nearby is a Holy Well.

St Connera’s grave is said to lie on the SW shore.

There are some outdoor altars on the island.