Spike Island, often referred to as "Ireland's Alcatraz," holds a dark and multifaceted history that has captured public fascination. Once a monastic settlement, the island evolved into a British military base in the 18th century and later became a notorious prison during the Victorian era. From 1847 to 1883, it housed thousands of convicts, including men and boys as young as 12, many imprisoned for minor offenses like stealing food during the Great Famine.
The conditions were harrowing, with up to 40 prisoners crammed into dormitory-style rooms. Solitary confinement in the punishment block was described as "hell on Earth," and more than 1,000 inmates perished within just a few years, buried in mass unmarked graves. Excavations led by bioarchaeologist Barra O’Donnabhain have uncovered fascinating insights, including a surprising level of care shown by prisoners in painting coffins to resemble oak, and chilling evidence of skull removals, possibly linked to discredited 19th-century criminology theories.
Arcaheologists excavate one of Spike Island's prison graveyards. Barra O'Donnabhain
A recent discovery added to the intrigue—a hidden spiral stone staircase dating back to the 18th century. Found during excavation work on a tunnel, this staircase was not documented on any historical plans and raises questions about its purpose, potentially linked to escape attempts or secretive activities.
Since opening to the public in 2016, Spike Island has become a major tourist attraction, drawing visitors curious about its dark past. Named "Europe’s Leading Tourist Attraction" in 2017, the site continues to fascinate, offering a glimpse into a place where history and mystery converge.
