Medieval Museum Waterford

Waterford City (See Map Below)

THE ONLY MUSEUM IN EUROPE BUILT UPON NATIONAL MONUMENTS

Waterford's Medieval Museum is a tribute to Medieval Waterford and life in the city during that period. Housed in a modern museum building, it is the only museum in Europe built upon and protecting National monuments - the 13th century Choristers' Hall and the 15th century Mayor's Wine Vault.

It forms part of Waterford Viking Triangle (3 museums* in close proximity) and is one of the city's top attractions.

Among the great treasures of international importance on display is the 4 metre long Great Charter Roll dated to 1373 (viewed by Queen Elizabeth II during her visit to Ireland in 2011) and the unique 15th century cloth of gold vestments which were lost for hundreds of years after they were hidden from Cromwell's army. They are the only set to survive in Northern Europe. Also worth watching out for is 'The Cap of Maintenance' which is the only piece of King Henry VIII's clothing to survive.

Take the multimedia handheld guide or enjoy a family-friendly tour with a costumed re-enactor who will guide you through this remarkable collection of historic and architectural treasures.

Location

Coming into Waterford City as you cross the bridge over the River Suir, turn left onto the quay and proceed all the quay till you come to the traffic lights at Reginald's Tower. Proceed through the traffic lights and you will see the House of Waterford Crystal on your left hand side, the Medieval Museum is on the opposite side of the road behind the Theatre Royal. There is public and coach parking available behind the House of Waterford Crystal.

Medieval Museum Waterford Location:

See the 'Cap of Maintenance' - a Gift of King Henry VIII

When you visit the Medieval Museum Waterford, look out for the ‘Cap of Maintenance’. It was a gift, along with a bearing sword, of King Henry VIII of England to the Mayor of Waterford in 1536.

A cap of maintenance was worn under the crown by the monarch from early Norman times and "he to whom the right was granted need doff his cap to nobody"! It was therefore a significant mark of royal approval. This cap, of red velvet from Lucca in Italy and embroidered with Tudor roses and marguerites (for Henry's grandmother), was probably made at the royal court.

This is the oldest such cap in Europe and is the only piece of King Henry VIII’s clothing to survive.

Visitor Information

Medieval Museum Waterford
Between Bishop's Palace and Cathedral Square, Waterford City
T. +353 (0)51 304 500

BOOK TICKETS

You can book online tickets to the Medieval Museum Waterford directly from their website at

http://www.waterfordtreasures.com