The city of Waterford has something in store for everyone, from its stunning coastline, to charm of its rural areas, and the vibrant life in the city.
Waterford is Ireland’s oldest city and is the perfect combination of modern and ancient or as the locals love to say, this is where you can experience that spans for 1,000 years in just 1,000 steps. This is the best place to be to bask in the local atmosphere and historic streets. You can go for a walking tour or you can also browse at the many quirky stores and local boutiques.
Waterford is also a city popular for its fun and exciting events and festivals like the Waterford Film Festival, Dunmore East Bluegrass Festival, Taste Tramore, Harvest Festival, Winterval, West Waterford Festival of Food, and Spraoi, just to name a few. Indeed, the historical city of Waterford has so many things to do and see that makes it the best spot to mark the beginning of your Irish adventure!
Standing on the city’s quays while breathing in the salty air will surely make you imagine how the ships during the 1700s loaded and unloaded their cargos right on the spot where you stand. The trade with Newfoundland paved way for the wealthy merchants settling in the area during the late 18th century that transformed the city into one of Ireland’s great ports that kickstarted a building boom.
Go for a walk around the centre of the city and you will see a selection of gorgeous architectural showpieces dating back to the bygone times. However, if you want to truly get the real picture, there might be a need for you to expand your imagination further back to the days when the Vikings founded the place in 914.
The Vikings knew what a good thing is the moment they laid their eyes on the place. The Norse raiders were lured by the strategic location on River Suir, the protected bay, and the ideal position for trading. All of these were the reasons why they created it as the first city of Ireland and after 1,100 years, Waterford is still going strong.
Exploring Waterford today, you will be surprised that the Vikings’ presence remains no matter where you go. The landmark monument of the city, Reginald’s Tower, sits at the centre of the area called The Viking Triangle that has been continuously used for more than 800 years. Once you step inside the thick stone walls, you will be able to enjoy the Viking Waterford Exhibition and the glorious 12th century Kite Brooch.
Layers of history clock the whole city of Waterford, every single layer being compelling and different. Get lost in the majestic Medieval Museum where you can see for yourself the Great Charter Roll of1372 and the sparkling Heavens’ Embroidered Cloths, the 15th century cloth of gold vestments. On the lovely Georgian Mall, you will find the Bishop’s Palace that showcases the architectural delights, wealth, and beauty of an 18th century townhouse.
Clearly, Waterford packs a lot when it comes to history that makes it one of the most significant cities of Ireland.
