Lynn Cahill outlines the historic attractions that can be found in Ireland’s oldest city, Waterford
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This article was first published in the Itinerary Planning Special Report 2016. All information was correct at the time of printing, but may since have changed.
Founded by Vikings from Norway in 914 AD, Waterford is a bustling, picturesque place full of atmospheric streets which hark back to medieval times. Part of Ireland’s Ancient East, there are plenty of visitor attractions and excursions to choose from, especially in the Viking Triangle which forms the cultural and heritage centre of Waterford.
Here you’ll find the multi-awarding winning Medieval Museum. Ranked the number one attraction in the region on TripAdvisor, this is not to be missed. Here visitors will be able to see the unique Cloth of Gold vestments which were lost for hundreds of years after they were hidden from Cromwell’s army. Also on view is the only piece of clothing left to survive which was worn by King Henry VIII.
Bishop’s place, meanwhile, houses the Napoleon Mourning Cross – the only one to survive out of the original twelve that were made on his death. And at Reginald’s Tower you’ll find the 9th century sword from a Viking warrior’s grave.
Waterford is also home to Waterford Crystal. Here visitors can visit the factory and get up close to watch master craftsmen blow and cut bespoke pieces of the famous crystal. The showroom houses the largest collection of Waterford Crystal in the world.