Northern Ireland · Ireland's Only Completely Walled City
데리
Northern Ireland (UK)
85,279 (District: 110,200)
River Foyle, 2nd largest in NI
GMT (UTC+0)
Derry, Northern Ireland's second-largest city after Belfast, counts 85,279 residents as of the 2021 census, with the Derry City and Strabane District totaling 110,200 people, 73% of whom live in the Londonderry area. The city's defining feature remains its historic walls, built between 1613 and 1619 by The Honourable The Irish Society. These perfectly preserved fortifications make Derry the only remaining completely walled city in Ireland and one of the finest walled cities in Europe, with a 1.5-kilometer walkway offering spectacular views.
The walls feature four original gates—Shipquay, Butcher, Bishop's, and Ferryquay—plus three later additions: New, Castle, and Magazine Gates. Walking these ramparts transports visitors through 400 years of dramatic history, from the famous 1689 Siege where the Protestant community withstood Catholic King James II's forces for 105 days, to the Troubles of the late 20th century. The walls have witnessed every major event in Irish and British history, their stones silent witnesses to conflict, courage, and ultimately, the journey toward peace.
The city's very name reflects Northern Ireland's complex identity. "Derry" is preferred by nationalists, the Catholic community, and the Republic of Ireland, while "Londonderry" is favored by unionists. The Troubles era (1970s-1980s) brought radical segregation, with the Protestant population declining 31% between 1971-1991 as 83% of Protestants left the Cityside, while the Catholic population grew 36%. Though relations have improved significantly since the 1998 Good Friday Agreement, the city remains divided. Yet these same walls that once separated communities now serve as a powerful symbol of resilience and the ongoing journey toward reconciliation.
Built between 1613 and 1618, these magnificent fortifications remain the only complete city walls in Ireland and among the finest in Europe. The 1.5-kilometer walkway circles the historic center, offering views across the River Foyle and into the city's Renaissance street plan preserved within. Four original gates—Shipquay, Butcher, Bishop's, and Ferryquay—plus three later additions tell the story of a city shaped by conflict and resilience. Walking the walls provides an unparalleled history lesson and stunning photography opportunities.
This stunning Neo-Gothic building from 1890, rebuilt in 1908 after a fire, showcases some of Ireland's finest stained glass windows. The intricate windows tell the city's story through vibrant colors and detailed imagery. The Guildhall serves as the center of civic life, hosting concerts, exhibitions, and official functions. Its clock tower and ornate facade make it one of Derry's most recognizable landmarks, symbolizing civic pride and cultural heritage.
Opened in 2011, this elegant S-shaped pedestrian and cyclist bridge spans the River Foyle, physically and symbolically connecting the traditionally unionist Waterside with the nationalist Cityside. The curved design represents two hands reaching toward each other in a handshake, embodying Derry's commitment to peace and reconciliation. At night, LED lighting creates a stunning spectacle. The bridge has become both a practical link and a powerful symbol of hope and unity.
This museum in the Bogside area tells the story of the Troubles through artifacts, photographs, and personal testimonies. It preserves the history of the civil rights movement, Bloody Sunday, and the community's struggle during Northern Ireland's darkest decades. The exhibits provide essential context for understanding Derry's recent history and the journey toward peace. Nearby murals, including the iconic "You Are Now Entering Free Derry" gable wall, create an open-air gallery of political art.
Built between 1628 and 1633, this is the first post-Reformation cathedral in the British Isles and a masterpiece of "Planter's Gothic" architecture. The cathedral houses artifacts from the 1689 Siege, including the original locks and keys of the city gates. The Chapter House museum displays rare documents and relics spanning 400 years. The cathedral's prominent position and elegant spire make it a defining feature of Derry's skyline and a testament to the city's religious heritage.
This award-winning museum in a replica medieval tower presents "The Story of Derry" exhibition, tracing 1,500 years from monastic settlement to modern city. A separate exhibition showcases artifacts from La Trinidad Valencera, a Spanish Armada ship wrecked off the Donegal coast in 1588. Interactive displays and multimedia presentations make history accessible and engaging, while the museum's location within the walls allows visitors to experience the layered history of this remarkable city.
Derry's economy has evolved significantly since the Troubles, with growing sectors in technology, creative industries, and tourism. The city's complete historic walls and dramatic history attract visitors seeking to understand Northern Ireland's journey from conflict to peace. The 2013 UK City of Culture designation brought international attention and investment, spurring cultural infrastructure development. While economic challenges persist, including higher unemployment than the Northern Ireland average, regeneration projects and improved cross-border cooperation with the Republic of Ireland create new opportunities.
Cultural life thrives despite historical divisions. The walls provide a dramatic setting for festivals and events, while the Bogside murals attract visitors worldwide interested in political art and history. Music and theater scenes flourish in venues old and new. The Peace Bridge symbolizes not just physical connection but cultural exchange between communities. Halloween celebrations in Derry are legendary, with thousands participating in Europe's largest Halloween street party. This cultural vibrancy, combined with growing tourism and the city's role as a cross-border hub, creates a sense of optimism. Derry demonstrates how communities can honor difficult histories while building shared futures, making it a living lesson in resilience, reconciliation, and hope.
Derry's history begins with St. Columba founding a monastery here in 546 AD, the name deriving from Irish "Doire" meaning oak grove. The Plantation of Ulster in the early 1600s brought English and Scottish settlers, with the Irish Society of London building the walls (1613-1619) to protect the new settlement, adding "London" to the name. The 1689 Siege became a defining moment when Protestant "Apprentice Boys" shut the gates against Catholic King James II's forces, enduring 105 days of siege that ended with relief ships breaking through. This event remains central to Protestant identity and is commemorated annually.
The 20th century brought new conflicts during the Troubles. Derry witnessed some of the period's most significant events, including Bloody Sunday in 1972 when British soldiers killed 13 civil rights protesters. The city became radically segregated along sectarian lines, with massive population shifts between 1971-1991. The 1998 Good Friday Agreement began the peace process, leading to improved relations though divisions persist. The 2011 Peace Bridge symbolized commitment to reconciliation. Today, Derry navigates its complex identity—British and Irish, Protestant and Catholic, divided and united—while the walls that once protected against siege now welcome visitors to learn from a city that has witnessed both the worst of conflict and the courage to pursue peace.
Bureau Chief 지원자는 물론, Derry를 방문하시는 모든 분들을 위해
편리한 여행 서비스를 안내해드립니다
⭐ 최저가 보장 • 24시간 전 무료 취소 • 안전한 예약