History
The name Waterford comes from the 9th century Viking name of Vedrarfjord. There is some debate as to its meaning though. Some think it is the 'Fjord of the Rams' because sheep used to be exported from there. Others think its 'Windy Fjord' as the harbour would provide shelter for boats from the windy Irish Sea.
View across the River Suir
A black and white photo of the view across the River Suir in Waterford city.
Courtesy of the National Library of IrelandView across the River Suir
Courtesy of the National Library of Ireland
Courtesy of the National Library of Ireland
View across the River Suir
A black and white photo of the view across the River Suir in Waterford city.
Courtesy of the National Library of IrelandThe reason that the Vikings settled in Waterford was because of the three rivers (Barrow, Nore, Suir) which entered the harbour there. Its importance as a trading stronghold was shown when the Anglo-Normans, led by Strongbow attacked the city in 1170.
Soon after, Henry 2nd declared Waterford a royal city. It was now the main port of Ireland, with the import of wine and the export of wool its main trade.
Over the next few centuries, the city was under siege from the Black Death, pirates and Cromwell amongst other things. However, the city stood firm and grew due to the development of Waterford Crystal and the shipbuilding industry.
Geography
The geography of Waterford City is dominated by the River Suir, which flows through the city. It joins up with the River Barrow and the River Nore before entering the sea at Waterford Harbour.
The Suir acts as a county boundary between Waterford and Kilkenny. However, as the city develops to the north, an increased percentage of people are living on the Kilkenny side of the city.