CALDEY ISLAND

also spelled Caldy Island, Welsh Ynys Byr island in Carmarthen Bay of the Bristol Channel, Pembrokeshire (Sir Benfro) county, Wales. It lies 2.3 miles (3.7 km) south of the port of Tenby. The island is 1.5 miles (2.4 km) long and 1 mile (1.6 km) across at its widest. From at least the 6th century, when it was inhabited by Celtic monks, Caldey has been associated with religious communities. In 1906 it was bought by Anglican Benedictines, who built the present monastery and abbey, but since 1928 they have been succeeded by Trappists from Belgium, who farm the island and make perfumes from herbs they grow. A small village and a lighthouse are also located on the island. Pop. (1981) 48.