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About
Waterford
Tucked away in the south-eastern corner of Ireland, County Waterford combines a wonderful mixture of sandy coastline with the rugged landscape more commonly found in County Cork.
History
Waterford City owes it origins to the Viking raiders and settlers of the ninth and tenth centuries. They chose a site for their settlement very similar to Viking town sites all across northern Europe. The key elements were a ridge of dry ground, a tidal river, a small tributary, fresh water and an easily defended site.
With all these factors present, a Viking settlement developed in the twenty-acre triangle between Reginald's Tower, the Clock Tower and the Car Stand. The three parallel streets of the older city, Lady Lane, Peter Street and High Street lie higher and were within the city walls. A lot of this area has now been investigated by archaeologists, resulting in some very extensive and spectacular finds.
In 1170 an Irish-Viking army was defeated in battle by the newly arrived Anglo-Normans, resulting in over seventy prominent citizens being thrown to their deaths off Baginbun Head. Overcoming a desperate defence, Strongbow besieged the city later that year. In 1210, the original Viking city walls were extended under the rule of King John. This saw Waterford grow to become Ireland's most powerful city and trading centre. After Derry, these are also Ireland's best-surviving city walls.
1649 then saw the town defy Cromwell, though not for long. In 1650 his forces returned and the city finally surrendered.
Waterford Crystal
Waterford Crystal has traditionally extended a warm welcome to visitors from around the world. Tours are given of the production areas where the famous crystal is actually made. There's also an audiovisual presentation, tracing the ancient craft of glassmaking to the present day.
Curraghmore House and Gardens
Curraghmore House is owned by the Marquis of Waterford and has been home to his ancestors since 1170. Guided tours of the house are usually conducted personally by Lord Waterford.
Reginalds Tower
Reginalds Tower has stood on its Waterford Quay site for more than a thousand years. The present structure dates from the late twelfth century and is the oldest urban civic building in the country. It has recently been completely restored to its medieval appearance.
Lismore Heritage Centre
This former courthouse, houses a historical display of Lismore's Celtic
origins. The story of Lismore dates from 636 and is told in an award-winning
presentation, narrated by Niall Toibin. Click
here to visit his site.
Passage East
Passage East is a small, friendly fishing village based around two open squares. The village is built beneath a high escarpment with small squares, streets and three main quays: Boathouse Quay, Hackett's Quay and Middle Quay.
Waterford City Walls
These fortifications date from the Viking and Anglo Norman period with six towers and long stretches of wall still standing. Walking tours are available at 12.00 and 14.00 from the Granville Hotel.
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