Waterford - Ireland's oldest tourist destination, founded by the vikings in 914AD.

Waterford is the oldest city in Ireland. A walled city of Viking origins, it retains much of it's medieval character together with the graceful buildings from its 18th century expansion.

Waterford is the home of Waterford Crystal, the world-famous hand-crafted, cut glass product. The Waterford Crystal Visitor Center is home to the largest collection of Waterford Crystal in the world and the guided tours offer access to all areas of traditional crystal production. Waterford Museum of Treasures comprises three magnificent museums chronicling over one thousand years of history. It is both a treasury of gold, bronze, silver, crystal and historical documents and a treasure trail that takes you through 1000 years of Ireland's oldest city. The Treasures of Viking Waterford in Reginald's Tower - the Chorister's Hall will open in 2012 and house the Medieval Treasures, and the recently renovated Georgian Bishop's Palace tells the story from 1700 to 1970.

The parameters of the 10th century settlement can be clearly identified in The Viking Triangle. Reginald's Tower is the oldest civic urban building in Ireland. The elegant Chamber of Commerce building, Christ Church Cathedral, the City Hall and the Bishop's Palace are prime examples of beautiful 18th century architecture.

Ecclesiastical landmarks include St. Patrick's Churches, Black Friars, St. Olave's Church and Greyfriars - .
The Church Of Ireland Christ Church Cathedral, and the Catholic Cathedral of the Most Holy Trinity were both designed by Waterford architect John Roberts (1714 - 1796).

The Edmund Rice International Heritage Center commemorates the founder of the Christian Brothers, Edmund Ignatius Rice.

The Granville Hotel was the home of the 18th century patriot, Thomas Francis Meagher before passing to the great transport entrepreneur, Carlo Bianconi.