Islands of Ireland: Named for a saint, Dunsy Island in Co Down was once held sacred

One day excavations may yield evidence of the time when the virgin Dunshach cogitated on things cosmic

The central part of Strangford Lough, Co Down has dozens of islands including Dunsy Island. Picture: Dan MacCarthy

While we have only one Hermit Island, located in the bountiful Lough Key in Co Roscommon, there are several others that served the same purpose in the early years of Christianity on this island: namely, to offer isolation from society to those seeking solace and a sense of being closer to god. 

As these were for solitary pursuits the hermitages were usually found far from the prying eyes of the curious, though the very curious would seek them out for spiritual guidance. A hermitage comprised of usually a basic stone house of small size and occasionally included an altar for worship.