Reginalds Tower

I did explore Reginald’s tower on my own, which actually Ireland’s oldest civic building. The first tower here was built by the Vikings after 914, then was re-built by the Anglo-Normans in the 12th century with the two top floors added in the 15th century. On the top, you can watch an informative video about the early history of Waterford and it’s an amazing place to start your exploration of the Viking triangle here.

Fantastic historical sight that provides great detail about the history of Waterford. The staff were friendly and helps us to ensure the best experience in the mueseum. At the top floor, there is a 12 minute video about the tower, which basically tells the story of Waterford. Mind the spiral steps if you're tall!

Reginald’s tower in Waterford, Munster, is a very interesting Anglo-Norman site in many different ways: it sits on the grounds of an old Viking fort, it was a mint under King John. It was part of a defensive wall that at one time, circled the city. The tower was used to be an armoury holding weapons, gunpowder and cannons and was once a prison as well in the 19th century. It still is in use 800 years later as a museum. You climb the tight, winding stairs, (they are very tight and steep for people with mobility issues), and a small, iron bar to hold on too. This was a defensive measure, as armed attackers couldn’t fight up the stairs, being mostly right handed and soldiers at the top had an easy time defending. There are two levels and two sets of stairs. At the top, there is a museum and look out from the windows. Not a large museum, but interesting. There are lots of sights to see in the ‘Viking Triangle’ of the city. With a Viking longship, huge tree carvings, an old church, and the original Viking fortifications that are still left.

This tower (named after the viking King Ragnar Lodbrok) is part of the medieval walls of waterford, which is also a good starting point for exploring the still standing walls and towers.

The Reginald Tower located along Mall Street is apparently the oldest civic building in Ireland , in use for over 800 years..The Anglo-Normans made this stone tower the strongest feature in the medieval walls..interestingly, this structure is adjacent to the 40 foot Viking Long Boat with the name Vadrafjordr which was the Viking Name for Waterford..