Derry City Walls
Ulster
The Derry City Walls, also known as the Walls of Derry, were constructed between 1613 and 1619 by the Irish Society under the guidance of architect Peter Benson to protect the English and Scottish settlers during the Plantation of Ulster. These walls form a complete circuit approximately one mile in circumference around the historic heart of Derry, Northern Ireland, encompassing key landmarks such as the Apprentice Boys Hall and St. Columb's Cathedral, the first purpose-built Protestant cathedral. The walls have never been breached, earning the city the nickname "Maiden City." They played a pivotal role during the 1689 Siege of Derry, when local apprentices famously locked the gates against forces loyal to King James II, enduring a prolonged siege until relief arrived. The walls feature seven gates, including four original gates like Ferryquay and Shipquay, as well as later additions such as Magazine Gate. Lined with 22 historic cannons dating from the 16th to 18th centuries, including the famous 'Roaring Meg,' the walls represent the largest and most complete circuit of ramparts in Ireland. Today, the walls are fully accessible on foot, offering visitors a unique journey through the city's turbulent history and architectural heritage. Preservation efforts and guided tours enhance the experience, making the walls a significant cultural and tourist attraction in Ulster.
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Astuce: For the best experience, visit the walls during dry weather to enjoy the full walking circuit comfortably. Early morning or late afternoon visits offer softer light for photography and fewer crowds. Consider purchasing tickets or joining guided walking tours in advance to gain deeper historical insights. Discounts may be available for seniors, students, and groups through official channels. The walls are open year-round, but special events and archaeological talks are held periodically, so check the official website before your visit.
Faits intéressants
- •The walls have never been breached in their history, earning Derry the nickname 'Maiden City'.
- •They contain 22 cannons from the 16th to 18th centuries, including the famous 'Roaring Meg'.
- •The walls enclose St. Columb's Cathedral, the first purpose-built Protestant cathedral in Ireland.
- •The Walker Monument, a 100 ft column on the walls, was destroyed by an IRA bomb in 1973 and never rebuilt.
- •The walls form the longest complete circuit of ramparts of any remaining walled town in Ireland.
Histoire
The walls were built between 1613 and 1619 by the Irish Society to defend the newly planted English and Scottish settlers following the Plantation of Ulster, replacing a settlement destroyed during O'Doherty's Rebellion.
In 1689, the walls famously withstood the Siege of Derry during the Williamite War, when local defenders resisted forces loyal to James II.
Over the centuries, additional gates were added, and the walls remained a symbol of the city's resilience.
During the Troubles in the late 20th century, parts of the walls were closed for security reasons, and in 1973 an IRA bomb destroyed the Walker Monument on the walls, which was never rebuilt.
The walls have since been restored and reopened as a heritage site.
Guide du lieu
Ferryquay Gate1613-1619
One of the original four gates, it provided access to the ferry quay on the River Foyle and was the first gate closed by the Apprentice Boys during the Siege of Derry.
Shipquay Gate1613-1619
An original gate giving near-direct access to the River Foyle before land reclamation created the Guildhall area.
Bishop's Gate1789
Originally built with the walls, it was replaced by a triumphal arch in 1789, marking an architectural evolution in the city's defenses.
Butcher's Gate1613-1619
Named after the street inside the walls where many butchers operated, it is one of the original four gates and reflects the city's historic trades.
New Gate1790s
Constructed in the 1790s and reinforced during the tensions leading to the 1798 United Irish Rebellion, it represents the city's ongoing military significance.
Castle Gate1805-1808
Built between 1805 and 1808, this gate reflects the continued development of the city's fortifications in the 19th century.
Magazine Gate1888
The most recent gate, built in 1888, providing direct access to the riverfront and reflecting the city's expansion and modernization.
Contact
Téléphone: 07894 534553
