County Waterford

County Waterford
Name	County Waterford
Native name	Contae Phort Láirge
Settlement type	County
Coordinates	52, 15, N, 7...
Subdivision type	Country
Subdivision name	Ireland
Subdivision type1	Province
Subdivision name1	Munster
Subdivision type2	Region
Subdivision name2	Southern
Seat type	County town
Seat	Waterford
Leader title	Local authority
Leader name	Waterford City and County Council
Leader title1	Dáil constituency
Leader name1	Waterford
Leader title2	EP constituency
Leader name2	South
Area total km2	1857
Area rank	20th
Population total	127,363
Population as of	2022
Population rank	21st
Population density km2	auto
Blank name sec1	Vehicle index mark code
Website	waterfordcouncil.ie

County Waterford is a county in the Province of Munster, within the Southern Region of Ireland. It is bordered by County Cork, County Tipperary, County Kilkenny, and the Celtic Sea. The county is renowned for its dramatic coastline, including the Copper Coast UNESCO Global Geopark, and its rich history centered on the Viking-founded city of Waterford.

Geography

The county's terrain is diverse, featuring the rugged peaks of the Comeragh Mountains and the Knockmealdown Mountains, which form part of the border with County Tipperary. Its significant rivers include the River Suir, the River Blackwater, and the River Bride. The coastline stretches from Tramore to Dungarvan, encompassing notable bays like Dungarvan Harbour and the estuary at Waterford Harbour. Key offshore islands are the Mahon Peninsula and the Cunnigar, with the latter forming part of Dungarvan Bay. The geological significance of the area is recognized through the Copper Coast Geopark, a designated UNESCO Global Geopark.

History

The region's early history is marked by the Gaelic kingdom of Déisi, with notable early Christian sites like the Monastery of St. Carthage at Lismore. The city of Waterford was established by Vikings in 914 AD, becoming a major Hiberno-Norse town. It was later captured by Strongbow in 1170, leading to its development as a crucial Norman stronghold. The county saw conflict during the Irish Confederate Wars and the Williamite War in Ireland, including the Siege of Waterford. The 19th century was defined by the Great Famine, which caused severe population decline. The early 20th century featured activity during the Irish War of Independence and the Irish Civil War.

Demographics

The population is predominantly urban, concentrated in Waterford city and the towns of Dungarvan and Tramore. According to the Central Statistics Office, the 2022 census recorded a population of 127,363. Historically, the county was a stronghold of the Irish language in the Gaeltacht area of An Rinn and Old Parish, which are part of the Gaeltacht na nDéise. Major religious denominations include the Catholic Church and the Church of Ireland.

Economy

The economy has transformed from its agricultural base, though farming remains important, particularly dairy production linked to Glanbia. Waterford is a significant industrial and commercial hub, historically famous for Waterford Crystal, now produced under the Waterford Crystal brand owned by Fiskars. The Port of Waterford is a key commercial port. Technology and manufacturing are represented by companies like Bausch + Lomb and Teva Pharmaceuticals. Tourism is a growing sector, focused on the Waterford Greenway, the Viking Triangle in Waterford, and the annual Waterford Festival of Food.

Culture and landmarks

The county has a vibrant cultural scene, with the Theatre Royal and Garter Lane Arts Centre being key venues. It is home to the Waterford Institute of Technology, now part of the South East Technological University. Annual events include the Spraoi festival and the Tall Ships Festival. Notable landmarks are Lismore Castle, Curraghmore House, the Mount Congreve Gardens, and the medieval Reginald's Tower. The county's sporting heritage is strong in hurling, with the Waterford GAA team having won the All-Ireland Senior Hurling Championship.

Governance and politics

Local government is administered by Waterford City and County Council, headquartered in Waterford and Dungarvan. The county is part of the Dáil constituency of Waterford, which elects four TDs to Dáil Éireann. It is within the South constituency for the European Parliament. Historically, the political landscape has been represented by figures such as John Redmond of the Irish Parliamentary Party and more recently by politicians from Fine Gael, Fianna Fáil, and The Labour Party.

Category:County Waterford Category:Counties of the Republic of Ireland Category:Counties of Munster