The Walled City
Derry city has the privilege to be the only completely walled city in Ireland and rated as one of the best examples in Europe of a Walled City. Dating back from the 1600’s the walls have been kept in excellent condition and are open for the public to walk around and to learn the history of this historical city. The Walls consist of four main gates which are Bishop’s Gate, Ferryquay Gate, Butcher Gate and Shipquay Gate. There are also additional gates within the Walls itself which were added later. The City Walls are also home to Europe’s largest collection of Cannons whose history is known precisely. The famous Roaring Meg cannon which was used in the Siege of Derry is also on the Walls and is very popular with visitors.
In 1613, at the time of James I, London became responsible for the small settlement of Derry and between the years 1614-1618, the city’s Walls were built. The costs of building the Walls were covered by the Irish Society and they were built to control the local Irish Rebels with the prominent London business men being made responsible for their upkeep and maintenance. Even after having survived a number of sieges in 1641, 1648, 1649 the Walls were never penetrated and are true testament to the constructers careful and strategic planning at the time they were built. The four gates within the walls all follow the same path and all lead to the Diamond, in the centre of the walls. Here, the local people The Diamond as the city centre and it is still as busy and bustling as it was in the days the walls were built. When visiting the walls, it is advised that one must try and visit the only Cathedral which stands within the walls. St Columb’s Cathedral is an impressive gothic building which dominates the Derry City skyline and is was completed in 1633. Built in dedication to the town’s found, Saint Columba, it is the main church of the Church of Ireland Diocese of Derry and steeped in the cities history. The cathedral is home to many original documents dating back from the Siege of Derry and even has the original keys to the gates, which were used in the 17th century. This magnificent church is certain to leave an impression on any visitor who takes a look, and is the perfect example of the how much pride the planters of the time took in their detail and attention when constructing in the city.
For any age the Walls are a pleasant and educational trip to the past, the Tower Museum which covers the history of not just the walls but the whole city and rural areas is entertaining for everyone and the stunning views one can see from the walls of the surrounding areas and rest of the city is enough to take your breath away.