 |
|
Search Travel Services |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| Search Special Travel |
|
|
|
|
| Search Destinations |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Odds n' Ends..! |
|
|
|
|
|
| Administration |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Although a Celtic stronghold, County Waterford was founded by Vikings in 853 at the mouth of the River Suir, however the name 'Wateford' is of
Danish origin. Waterford is a very fertile country with rugged mountains and a pretty coastline dotted with small fishing villages and small
holiday retreats.
The county is criss-crossed by two mountain ranges, the Comeragh and the Monavullagh, which feature lovely small lakes and
small conifer fir tree forests. Settled since prehistoric times, the first recorded civilizations are believed to be about 9000 BC with the
Celts invading the area around 500 BC, and the local tribe the `Deisi' harassing Roman Britain around this time.
The region is still
sometimes called the 'Decies' by the locals, such was this fierce tribes reputation and repute. Even today Waterford City still has a
very old historic feel to it, but these days the name `Waterford' is world famous and renowned for its fine crystal.
Click on the headings to find out more:
You can visit the famous Waterford Crystal glass factory started in 1783 and located about a mile or so west of the city on the Cork road. Wander
through the elegant showroom and be guided through the production areas, finishing off with a 17-minute audio-visual presentation, which is shown
continually. We strongly suggest that you purchase as much crystal as you can afford (or not afford!) if you like this sort of thing, as it is
probably half the price that you would pay back home if you are visiting from overseas, (once government tax is deducted for tax free visitor
purposes.)
Also in Waterford worth visiting is Reginald's Tower, a massive circular fortress with 10 foot thick walls. Built around 1003, it was named
after the Norse governor at that time. Taken by the villain Strongbow in 1170 the tower became a Norman stronghold and has been used since
then as a Mint, a royal residence and a city prison. Today it houses a fascinating museum.
Christ Church Cathedral in Waterford is Ireland's only neo-classical Georgian cathedral. Let the Pillars Speak is an audio performance,
which helps bring it to life. Traditionalists may prefer older entertainment, such as viewing the tomb of James Rice, a 15th Century Lord
Mayor of Waterford. He is shown decaying, with worms and frogs emerging from his corpse - a reminder of the ephemeral nature of life.
|
|
|
