Isles of Scilly

The Isles of Scilly (/ˈsɪli/; Cornish: Syllan or Enesek Syllan) are an archipelago off the southwestern tip of the Cornish peninsula of Great Britain. It is the southernmost location in England and the United Kingdom, as well as the most westerly in England.

The population of all the islands at the 2011 census was 2,203. Scilly forms part of the ceremonial county of Cornwall, and some services are combined with those of Cornwall. However, since 1890, the islands have had a separate local authority. Since the passing of the Isles of Scilly Order 1930, this authority has had the status of a county council and today is known as the Council of the Isles of Scilly.

The adjective "Scillonian" is sometimes used for people or things related to the archipelago. The Duchy of Cornwall owns most of the freehold land on the islands. Tourism is a major part of the local economy, along with agriculture — particularly the growing of cut flowers.

History

Ancient history

Scilly has been inhabited since the Stone Age, and until the early 20th century its history had been one of subsistence living. Farming and fishing continue, but the main industry now is tourism.

Manuae (Society Islands)

The atoll of Manua'e, also known as Scilly, is located approximately 60 km (37 mi) to the northwest of Maupiha'a (aka Mopelia) and 255 km (158 mi) to the west of Maupiti. It is the westernmost of the Society Islands' Leeward Islands, located 217 mi. (350 km) west of Bora Bora and 342 mi. (550 km) west of Pape'ete.

Geography

Manua'e consists of a ring of islands approximately 6-7 mi. in diameter, separated by unnavigable passages, rising just a few feet above sea level. The motus are covered primarily with coconut palms and tropical scrub with sandy beaches, and comprise a total land area of about 3.5 km² (1.4 sq mi).

Administration

The atoll is administratively part of the commune (municipality) of Maupiti, itself in the administrative subdivision of the Leeward Islands.

Nature Reserve

The atoll's lagoon, home to a number of rare species, has been a nature reserve since 1992. The beaches are popular with sea turtles, including the endangered Green Sea Turtle, which come annually to lie on Manua'e's beaches beginning each November. The atoll is also home to large oyster beds, containing up to 3 or 4 million oysters.