The dark side of Wales: how Ynys Enlli became the first sanctuary of darkness.

Gazing at the firmament has been, since the earliest accounts of mankind, one of the greatest sources of inspiration. Astronomy, philosophy, physics and many other fields of study were born out of being captured by the immensity of the starry skies. However, it is becoming increasingly difficult to indulge in this simple yet powerful activity, as the light we emanate from cities and towns has overshadowed the sky. Ynys Enlli (Isle of Bardsey) is Europe's very first town to become a sanctuary of darkness, making it the best place to enjoy stargazing on the continent.

The island's location makes it particularly perfect for this transformation, as this tiny island, set apart from the rest of Wales and dominated by lush green lawns, has a mountain that blocks out the glow of light coming from the rest of the country. The only artificial light reflections come from Dublin, on the other side of the Irish Sea.

DarkSky International is behind the recognition of Ynys Enlli as an International Dark Sky Sanctuary. It is an organisation that works to remedy the light pollution that affects our creativity, economy and climate, as well as the lives of thousands of other species. "We restore the nighttime environment and protect communities from the harmful effects of light pollution through outreach, advocacy and conservation," they announce on their website.

Achieving this recognition has been hard work: "The community has worked hard over the last six years to highlight the benefits of becoming a dark sky community," said Leigh-Harling Bowen, leader of the Presteigne and Norton Dark Sky Community - the only populated area of Ynys Enlli - which has been named the first dark sky community.

This community is now the best destination to go and be amazed by the spectacles that the sky puts on. Just as people travel to see the Northern Lights in Iceland and Norway, Ynys Enlli - where on special occasions the Northern Lights are also seen - will now be the destination for stargazers.

"This change has resulted in a reduction in greenhouse gas emissions, along with a beneficial effect on wildlife, especially nocturnal insects, birds and bats. Reducing light pollution has also allowed us to clearly see the glory of the night sky, a legacy that our children and grandchildren will continue to enjoy," added Leigh-Harling Bowen.

This island, just over two miles off the Llŷm peninsula, is known as the Island of 20,000 Saints because since the sixth century this verdant piece of land has been a favourite place for Celts and Christians alike to build their monasteries. Its Welsh name Ynys Enlli means "the island of streams", although in English it has been more commonly known as "the island of bards" (Bardsey Island).

It has a population of just 11 people, as most of the island's 179 hectares are taken up by Mynydd Enlli, this 176-metre high elevation that blocks out the light from the rest of Wales.

The community who live here mainly work the land, fish, and enjoy their quiet life and starry nights. Visitors are only allowed between March and October, and can stay in one of the 10 holiday cottages on the island. A peaceful, dark island, where you can see the sky better than anywhere else.