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Tower · Waterford, Waterford
Reginald's Tower
13th-century circular stone tower on the site of Waterford's Viking fortification, the oldest civic building in Ireland, with an exhibition about the Viking town.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Reginald's Tower
Reginald's Tower sits at the tip of the Viking Triangle, on the banks of the River Suir, on the site where the Vikings built a wooden fortification in the 10th century. The name recalls Ragnall, a Viking leader. The stone tower you see today dates from the 13th century, built by the Normans as part of the town walls, with walls about 3 to 4 metres thick and roughly 16 metres high.
It is considered the oldest civic building in continuous use in Ireland. Over the centuries it has served as a fortification, mint, prison, armoury and residence. Tradition says it was there that the Norman leader Strongbow married Aoife, daughter of the King of Leinster, in 1170, a union that paved the way for Norman rule in Ireland.
Today the tower houses an exhibition on Viking Waterford, with objects found in excavations in the city centre, such as weapons, coins and a gold-and-silver brooch known as the Kite Brooch, from the 12th century. The visit ascends a narrow staircase to the floors, with panels about the city's foundation.
The tower is cared for by the state's heritage body and forms part of the Waterford Treasures ensemble, with the Medieval Museum and the Bishop's Palace a few steps away.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
30 to 45 minutes.
Best time
In the morning or late afternoon, combined with the other museums in the Viking Triangle. Check opening times, which vary by season.
How to get there
It is on The Quay, at the corner with The Mall, in central Waterford, a 10-minute walk from the train station, on the other side of the bridge.
Tip
Look for the Kite Brooch in the exhibition. Combine it with the Medieval Museum and the Bishop's Palace, which are less than a 5-minute walk away.
Official website
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Reginald's Tower
Is the tower Viking?
The stone tower dates from the 13th century, Norman, but stands on the site of a 10th-century Viking fortification and is named after a Viking chieftain.
What can you see inside?
An exhibition about Viking Waterford, with objects from the city's excavations, such as the Kite Brooch.
Is it near the other museums?
Yes. The Medieval Museum and the Bishop's Palace are less than a 5-minute walk away, in the Viking Triangle.