Medieval Museum, Waterford
Waterford's Medieval Museum is a purpose-built museum, opened in 2013, that centres on two extraordinary surviving medieval spaces: the 13th-century wine vault of a Choristers' Hall and the 15th-century Mayor's Wine Vault, both incorporated into the new building's structure so visitors descend into genuinely original medieval stonework. Its standout treasures are the Great Charter Roll of 1373, a beautifully illustrated document recording Waterford's royal charters and civic history, and a set of rare cloth-of-gold vestments, among the finest surviving examples of medieval textile art in Europe, remarkably preserved. Together with items recovered from Waterford's Viking and Anglo-Norman past, the museum makes a compelling case for Waterford's importance as Ireland's oldest city and a major medieval port, with trading and political links stretching across Europe. It's the middle chapter of the city's Museum of Treasures trio, bridging the Viking-era Reginald's Tower and the Georgian Bishop's Palace, and gives real depth to a walk through Waterford's Viking Triangle.
Medieval Museum, Waterford FAQs
A beautifully illuminated 1373 document recording Waterford's royal charters and civic privileges, considered one of the most important surviving medieval Irish manuscripts.
Yes, the museum was built around and incorporates a genuine 13th-century wine vault and 15th-century Mayor's Wine Vault, so visitors walk through original medieval stonework.
Yes, it's generally sold as part of a combined ticket with the Bishop's Palace, and often Reginald's Tower, as part of Waterford's Museum of Treasures.
A rare and remarkably preserved set of medieval cloth-of-gold vestments, among the finest surviving examples of that craft in Europe.
Around 45 minutes to an hour is typical for a focused visit.
More in Waterford
Reviews/Comments
No comments yet — be the first.