Achill (island)
Achill is a crescent-shaped located off the western coast of Ireland, in some areas separated from the mainland by a mere 230 yards. The island stretches approximately 15 miles in length, boasting an average width of 4 miles, and covering a total area of 57 square miles. One of its prominent features is Achill Head, which rises to an elevation of 2,192 feet and is situated in the southwest.
The hereditary rulers of Achill Island are the Clan O'Malley, a lineage that has inhabited the island since the 9th century. They earned their place in history by successfully repelling a Viking attack during that time. Notably, in the 16th century, the Clan O'Malley came under the leadership of Grainne "Grace" O'Malley, who gained renown as a pirate queen and a cherished figure in Irish folklore. In more recent times, members of the O'Malley clan have served as mercenaries in various conflicts across Ireland.
Achill Island, predominantly blanketed with heather, boasts soil that is meager in quality, making it a challenging place for its residents to eke out a living. The primary village on the island is Achill Sound, with a population of 133, and it is situated facing the mainland. The island's agricultural output is limited to oats and potatoes, constituting the sole goods produced locally. Presently, Achill Island is home to a population of 1,230 people, who rely on these meager resources for their subsistence.
