The Derry/Londonderry Walls are historic city walls that surround the city of Derry /Londonderry in Northern Ireland. Built between 1613 and 1619, the walls are a prominent feature of the city and hold significant historical and cultural value.
The construction of the walls was commissioned by the London livery companies as part of the Plantation of Ulster during the early 17th century. The walls were built to defend the city from potential attacks and uprisings. The original walls enclosed an area of about 1,500 acres.
The Walls are approximately 1.5 kilometers (1 mile) in circumference and are among the best-preserved city walls in Europe. They stand up to 8.5 meters (28 feet) high in some places and are punctuated by a series of gates and bastions. There are four original gates: Bishop's Gate, Shipquay Gate, Ferryquay Gate, and Butcher Gate.
The walls have witnessed key events in Irish and British history, including the Siege of Derry in 1689 during the Williamite War in Ireland. The Siege, one of the longest in European history, played a crucial role in shaping the city's identity.
Take time to visit the Siege Museum, located within the city walls, providing an in-depth look at the Siege of Derry and the historical context in which the walls were built. It offers exhibits, artifacts, and multimedia presentations.
The walk along the walls provides panoramic views of the city and the River Foyle. The ramparts offer a unique perspective on the city's architecture and layout.
UNESCO World Heritage Status:
The Derry/ Londonderry Walls are part of the historic city center o, which was awarded the title of a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2010 as the "City of Derry/Londonderry.
The walls are open to the public and Walking the full circumference of the walls is a common activity, offering a leisurely and informative way to explore the city.