West Cork, Ireland – Nestled within the rolling hills of Ireland’s southernmost county, a breathtaking sculptural masterpiece offers a serene escape from the modern world.
The Sky Garden, an awe-inspiring art installation by renowned Californian artist James Turrell, is drawing increasing attention for its otherworldly design and tranquil atmosphere.
Located on the Liss Ard Estate near Skibbereen, West Cork, the immersive artwork resembles an ancient crater with a granite plinth.
Visitors can lie on the stone platform, feet to feet, and look up at the sky, creating a profound sensory experience.
The design draws inspiration from Celtic, Egyptian, and Mayan architecture, enhancing its mystical allure.
A visit to the Sky Garden offers a retreat from the chaos of modern life, replacing noise with absolute silence.
For just £12, visitors can walk through a 32-meter-long ‘womb-like’ tunnel, followed by stairs leading to an oval-shaped basin—a journey that feels both ancient and futuristic.
The site is built on an ancient ring fort, a Bronze Age circular settlement standard across northern Europe.
Turrell, known for his light-focused designs, was commissioned in the late 20th century by German art dealer Veith Turske, then the estate owner. Upon completing the garden in 1992, Turrell described its unique interaction with nature, stating, “The most important thing is that inside turns into outside… the relationship between the Irish landscape and the Irish sky changes.”
Now, over three decades later, the Sky Garden is experiencing a resurgence in popularity, with aerial footage of the site going viral on Instagram and TikTok.
This renewed interest reflects Ireland’s cultural renaissance, with artists, writers, and musicians gaining significant international recognition.
With the Republic of Ireland welcoming 6.2 million overseas visitors in 2024, a 7% increase from the previous year, the Emerald Isle continues to attract global admiration. While the Sky Garden remains a hidden gem, its rising online fame suggests it won’t stay that way long.
