County Waterford - Heritage/Historical<< Waterford Homepage |
|
|
| Here's a selection of Waterford Heritage/Historical.Click on the 'Go to ALL' link to get the full list. |
1. Heritage Centres |
Go to ALL Heritage Centres in Waterford |
Waterford crystalKilbarry, Cork Road, Co. WaterfordBlowing & Shaping … A Technique used for centuries. The techniques and tools have changed little over the centuries since George and William Penrose first opened their glassmaking factory in 1783. The craftsmen transform glowing balls of crystal into elegant shapes using their artistic instinct, their breath and traditional tools such as hollow iron rods and handmade wooden moulds. Pot Setting: Each Friday, the pots containing the molten crystal are removed for the furnace .. this is a very physical and demanding process in the raw heat generated by a 1400 degrees celcius furnace. Jug making is a unique blowing craft that demands nothing less than excellence. The master jugmaker must add a handle and lip to the crystal shape using his basic tools and unerring skills. As the handle cools, it is manually teased into the shape of an arch - a task that draws upon the exceptional skills and judgement of the master jugmaker. Annealing: The blown crystal shape must be quickly transferred to an annealing oven. This allows the crystal to reach normal air temperature slowly, thereby avoiding stresses caused by rapid cooling, contraction and inevitable breakage. Annealing can take from 2 hours for a wine glass to about 16 hours for a large sports trophy. Blank Processing: The piece is now fully formed. Next, using diamond-tipped saws, the 'cap' is cut at a specified point, and the exposed rim is smoothed and bevelled. After washing, the blank piece is ready for the critical eye of the quality inspector. Quality Inspection: You may wonder why you never find Waterford seconds. The answer is there are none. Outstanding quality remains the hallmark of Waterford Crystal. To maintain this level of quality, insisted upon by Waterford, quality control checks are carried out throughout the process. Each piece is given a thorough examination by highly trained quality control personnel. Only pieces which conform to the stringent quality standards of Waterford will continue to the next stage of the process. All others are destroyed. Marking & Wedge Cutting: The cutting teams, led by master craftsmen - working amidst the constant whirr of revolving cutting wheels and the grinding of crystal - create the deeply cut patterns that have made Waterford crystal famous since the 18th century. There are two types of cutting; wedge and flat. The designs are cut by hand and from memory using a geometric guide marked onto the crystal. Cutting: Each type of cut is a unique craft - the skill and dexterity of which you will witness when you see these craftsmen at work. Engraving/Sculpting: Many famous sporting and commemorative events feature engraved Waterford Crystal as the treasured prize. Waterford has developed the largest copper wheel engraving department in the world; which creates unique works of art. Master Craftsman's Workshop: Take a step back in time here, avail of a unique opportunity to meet our master craftsmen in their place of work. They will share with you their craft skills of cutting and engraving and answer any questions in a relaxed atmosphere … giving life to the legend that is Waterford. Visitor Services: Once back in the Gallery, having witnessed the magic of Waterford being created, you can browse through the world's largest display of Waterford in magnificent surroundings. Our friendly staff are on hand and will be pleased to assist you. Items may be purchased in our gift shop and through our world-wide mailing service including pieces which are exclusive to the Gallery. Our elegant restaurant is ideal for a snack or light meal. | |
 | |
2. Towers (Round) |
Go to ALL Towers (Round) in Waterford |
Waterford Church and TowerCo. WaterfordWaterford was founded by the Vikings around 914 and initiated its own episcopal See in the 11th century. It was taken by Diarmuid Mac Murrough Kavanagh, and later fell to Strongbow who married MacMurrough's daughter in the now no longer existing Cathedral in the town. In medieval times it was a flourishing port, loyal to the English crown. However, it lost status by remaining Catholic, and submitted to Cromwell's son-in-law in 1650. In the 18th and early 19th century, the town had a famous glass industry which was re-established in 1947. @The French Church@ The church was founded as a convent for the Franciscans by Hugh Purcell about 1240. In 1395 the O'Conor Don, de Burgo, O'Brien and O'Kennedy submitted to Richard 11 in the Friary, and Cahpters of the Order were held here in 1317, 1469, 1615 and 1834. Of the original buildings a nave, chancel and north aisle remain. There is a triple-light east window in the chancel. In 1545 Henry Walsh was granted a charter by Henry V!!! to make the Friary, by then dissolved, into a hospital, and the area over the nave of the church was used as such for hundreds of years, while the chancel and the Lady Chapel were used for the burials of members of illustrious Waterford families such as the Powers, Waddings etc. Reginald's Tower: The tower was allegedly founded by Reginald the Dane in 1003, but it is probably a 13th century Norman tower. In 1463 a mint was established in it. In the 19th century it was used as a prison. The City Museum, displaying the City Regalia etc., is housed on the upper floors. | |
| |
3. Monuments |
Go to ALL Monuments in Waterford |
Dromana GateVillerstown, Co. WaterfordHindu-Gothic gatelodge on the road to quaint Villerstown, built in the 19th Century to mark the marriage of a popular local landlord and MP. | |
| |
4. Heritage Centres |
Go to ALL Heritage Centres in Waterford |
Barony of GaultierCo. WaterfordThe ancient Barony of Gaultier with its rolling hills, craggy cliffs and stand, has much to offer the discerning visitor. One can cycle along its country roads or go coarse fishing in Bell Lake or catch a quiet amble up the Minaun in one's pleasure. A round of golf in Faithlegg, Waterford Castle or Dunmore would satisfy the appetite of any golfer. Sailing and watersports in the Suir estuary and sea is a must for the ardent sea lover. Visit the craft people in the Barony or capture a scene on canvas as the light shines on Creaden head. In the evening one can recall the day's events over a quiet drink or share company in the many lovely fish food restaurants which enhance the Barony. | |
| |
5. Cathedrals (Historical) |
Go to ALL Cathedrals (Historical) in Waterford |
Ardmore CathedralCo. WaterfordThe Cathedral is on the site of St Declan's Monastery; the present building is of various periods and many styles. The chancel being the oldest dating from 9th century, with the nave being late 12th century work. Further works on the south side-wall and the east gable are of the 14th century. The external figure filled panels on the West gable of the nave must be the most striking feature of the whole ruin dating from the 9th to 11th centuries. | |
| |
6. Archaeological |
Go to ALL Archaeological in Waterford |
KnockeenCo. WaterfordOne of the most spectacular megalithic tombs of the distinctive south Leinster group, a stately Neolithic mausoleum, 'remarkable', to quote Borlase, 'for its solidity, and the perfect carrying out of a unity of design'. As a scheduled National Monument it is entitled to better care than it currently receives. 'It stands neglected in a corner of the disused burial ground of Kilburrin, 4 miles south-south-west of Waterford city, its great lichen encrusted stones emerging from a tangle of overgrown hedges. The size of this monument is quite astonishing when viewed at close quarters and it is evident that considerable labour must have gone into its construction, perhaps over a number of years. The paired portal stones reach the imposing height of 9 feet and have a heavy door-stone set between them to close to the porch-like entrance. There are two capstones, a feature peculiar to several portal-tombs in the area; the main one, a massive horizontal slab 12 feet long and 3 feet thick, rests on the portal stones and on the smaller capstone which covers the rectangular chamber. The overall height of the dolmen is 12 feet. | |
| |
7. Towers (Historical) |
Go to ALL Towers (Historical) in Waterford |
Round Tower - ArdmoreCo. WaterfordThis beautifully proportioned Round Tower built in the 12th century raises its tapering form to a height of 30 metres (97 feet), and is divided on the outside into four storeys, marked off by projecting string courses. The entrance doorway is some 4 metres above ground level. The purpose of The Round Tower was to serve as a belfry, and as a place of refuge for the ecclesiastics, and for the safe custody of their books, chalices, shrines and relics. | |
| |
8. Castles (Historical) |
Go to ALL Castles (Historical) in Waterford |
Ardmore CastleCo. WaterfordThis small castle was built at the same time as the coastguard station as a watch tower and signal station, and was also abandoned in 1921. On the cliffs below is the spectacular wreck of the crane ship Samson. It was blown ashore in December 1987 while being towed from Liverpool to Malta. | |
| |
9. Dolmens |
Go to ALL Dolmens in Waterford |
Balllynageeragh DolmenCo. WaterfordA portal dolmen consisting of four standing stones supporting two capstones. It has been unfortunately reconstructed with the aid of cement. | |
| |
10. Tombs |
Go to ALL Tombs in Waterford |
KnockeenCo. WaterfordOne of the most spectacular megalithic tombs of the distinctive south Leinster group, a stately Neolithic mausoleum, 'remarkable', to quote Borlase, 'for its solidity, and the perfect carrying out of a unity of design'. As a scheduled National Monument it is entitled to better care than it currently receives. 'It stands neglected in a corner of the disused burial ground of Kilburrin, 4 miles south-south-west of Waterford city, its great lichen encrusted stones emerging from a tangle of overgrown hedges. The size of this monument is quite astonishing when viewed at close quarters and it is evident that considerable labour must have gone into its construction, perhaps over a number of years. The paired portal stones reach the imposing height of 9 feet and have a heavy door-stone set between them to close to the porch-like entrance. There are two capstones, a feature peculiar to several portal-tombs in the area; the main one, a massive horizontal slab 12 feet long and 3 feet thick, rests on the portal stones and on the smaller capstone which covers the rectangular chamber. The overall height of the dolmen is 12 feet. | |
| |
11. Homes (Historical) |
Go to ALL Homes (Historical) in Waterford |
Curraghmore House GardensCo. WaterfordMagnificent home of the Marquis of Waterford and his ancestors since 1170. Interior of house contains exceptionally fine plasterwork. Grounds include outstanding Arboretum, shell grotto built and personally decorated by Catherine Poer, countess of Tyrone in 1754 and a bridge built in 1205 for King John to cross River Clogagh. | |
| |
12. Museums |
Go to ALL Museums in Waterford |
Reginald's Tower MuseumThe Quay, Co. WaterfordLocated at the junction of the Quays and Mall. Reginald's Tower is Waterford's best known landmark. The building has been described as the oldest tower of mortared stone in Europe. It was erected by and takes its name from Reginal Maclvor, Danish Govener of Waterford in 1003 A.D. It has been used as a fortress, a prison, a military stores depot, a mint, and an air raid shelter. Presently, it houses the City's civic and maritime museum. The exhibits include the colourful regalia of the Corporation and a remarkable collection (19) of Royal Charters bestowed on the city by 11 English Monarchs. | |
| |
13. Monastic Sites |
Go to ALL Monastic Sites in Waterford |
St. Declan's OratoryCo. WaterfordThe Beannachan is the oldest building in the graveyard. It is possibly 8th century. The upper walls and roof were restored by Bishop Mills in the 18th century. Within according to tradition is the grave of St. Declan. Generations of the faithful have scooped out the earth from the Saint's grave as it is believed to protect from disease. | |
| |
14. Historic Hotels |
Go to ALL Historic Hotels in Waterford |
Waterford CastleThe Island, Ballinakill, Co. WaterfordLady Levinge of Clohamon was born in this castle, which stands on its own 310-acre island in the middle of the river Suir. Her grandfather, much married, was a noted local personality, her mother, who later became Princess d'Ardia Caracciolo, was a famous thirties beauty, who, it is said, had been known to swim the river when returning home from a hunt ball. The castle was built in the 1160s and had wings added in the 19th century. Now it has been bought by a wealthy local farmer and transformed into a comfortable and luxurious hotel. A small private ferry takes visitors and their vehicles over the 300 yards of river, where a large elegant launch is tied up waiting to take guests deep-sea fishing. The drive, edged with lamps, curves round through the woods, to immaculate gardens, lawns, and a tarmac forecourt in front of the massive stone towers of the crenelated castle. An oak staircase rises to what were once the master bedrooms, now suites, great lofty rooms, some with antique four-posters and bathrooms still with original tile-work. All have striking reproduction claw-footed baths and bathroom-ware painted with flowers, with brass taps and wooden seats. At the other end of the Hall are smaller, more snug bedrooms. | |
| |
15. Stones (Historical) |
Go to ALL Stones (Historical) in Waterford |
Saint Declan's Stone - ArdmoreCo. WaterfordAccording to legend, this stone was carried miraculously on the waves from Wales following Declan's visit there. Beneath the two supporting points is left a little hollow, through which devotees would painfully drag themselves in prayer on "Pattern" Day the 24th July, in the belief of receiving health or spiritual benefits. Declan founded a seminary in Ardmore circa 416. The Holy Well served as a Baptistery to the primitive Christian missionaries. Declan Christianised the area of Decies before St. Patrick came in 431. They met a number of times at Cashel. Declan retired for greater seclusion to a little cell he had made himself at the spot where now is the ruined church beside the Holy Well. There is no uniform date for this church; the western section is the earlier construction, whereas parts of the eastern end show signs of 14th century work. | |
| |
16. Abbeys |
Go to ALL Abbeys in Waterford |
Melleray AbbeyCo. WaterfordFollowing the Vee Scenic route, four miles on is the famed Mount Melleray Abbey founded in 1832. Mount Melleray is a monastery of the Cistercian Order of the Strict Observance and it was built by the monks who were expelled from France. | |
| |
17. Churches (Historical) |
Go to ALL Churches (Historical) in Waterford |
Ardmore Church And Round TowerCo. WaterfordThe earliest monastery was founded here by St. Declan who is alleged to have been a bishop in Munster when St. Patrick arrived, and who is one of the main supports for the belief in the existence of Christianity in the south of Ireland before St. Patrick. Ardmore was recognised as a Cathedral and had its bishop in 1170. In 1591 it was leased to Sir Walter Raleigh who only held it for 2 years. In 1642 the confederate army hiding in the Church and Round Tower were besieged by the English. When they surrendered, 117 out of 154 of them were hanged on the spot. The Round Tower rises in three steps to a height of 95 feet, and is one of the best-preserved examples in Ireland. The church, known as the 'Cathedral', was erected by Meolettrim O Duibh-rathra sometime before his death in 1203, but was built in a number of stages. It is probable that he utilised the remainder of an older church in the lowest portion of his church. The building has most unusual features: the recessed Romanesque west window, the arcades on the interior wall, and a pointed chancel arch. Two Ogham stones have been placed in the church for safety. One of these stones has two inscriptions (1) LUGUDECCAS MAQI...COI NETA-SEGAMONAS AND (2) DOLATI BIGA ISGOB(a stone commemorating Lugaid, son or grandson of Nia-Segmon) and the other reads simply AMDU (the loved one). The most unusual feature of all in the church are the Romanesque sculptures on the exterior of the west wall which are all arranged in a series of arcades, a row of small ones on the top, and two larger arches containing smaller ones on the bottom. Many of the scenes in the upper arches are much worn, but the Archangel Michael weighing the souls can be made out. Below Adam and Eve, the Judgement of Solomon and the Adoration of the Magi are visible. To the east of the church is a small building, St. Declan's oratory, which was re-roofed in 1716. The Lugudeccas Ogham stone was found in the gable. It is traditionally taken to be the burial place of St. Declan, and a hollow in the south-east corner is pointed out as his grave. | |
| |
18. Brewerys |
Go to ALL Brewerys in Waterford |
West Waterford VineyardsDavid & Patricia McGrath , Co. WaterfordSituated in the fertile valley of the majestic River Blackwater, it comprises of 2000 vines at present, from which we produce pure Irish grape wine of the highest quality. We also produce a range of country wines. | |
| |
19. Wells (Historical) |
Go to ALL Wells (Historical) in Waterford |
Fr O'Donnell's WellCo. WaterfordA Mr. J. P. Rahilly of Limerick, whilst staying in Ardmore in 1928 recovering from an illness, found the waters of the well to have great curative properties especially for eye ailments. Mr Rahilly - with local help - constructed the present ediface. He hoped it would become a place of pilgrimage similar to Lourdes. Father O'Donnell is thought to have been a silenced priest who many years before came and read his office there. | |
| |
| << Waterford Homepage | |
Privacy policy / Disclaimer / FAQs / Links / Contact us
Contact Reservations Toll-Free now at:
GoIreland.com operated by Gulliver Ireland, FEXCO Center, Langford Street, Killorglin, Co.Kerry, Ireland |