Ireland's only purpose-built medieval museum, incorporating two genuine medieval chambers — the 13th-century Choristers' Hall and the 15th-century Mayor's Wine Vault — right in the heart of Waterford's Viking Triangle.
Descend a spiral staircase into this vaulted stone chamber, built around 1270. A glass panel in the floor reveals foundations of an even earlier Deanery building. The stone was imported from Dundry, England, likely as ship's ballast.
Built in 1440 by wealthy wine merchant and mayor Peter Rice, this atmospheric 15th-century undercroft reflects Waterford's medieval status as the 'wine capital of Ireland'. Its thick walls and vaulted ceiling are remarkably intact.
This illustrated parchment manuscript preserves Waterford's civic records from 1356 to 1649 across 233 sheets of calf-hide vellum. It includes a famous depiction of the walled city with three ships — still on Waterford's coat of arms today. Viewed by King Charles III and the Queen Consort.
The only complete set of medieval vestments surviving in Northern Europe. Made from Italian silk woven in Florence and embroidered in Bruges in the 1460s, they depict scenes from the Bible and the life of the Virgin Mary.
The only surviving piece of clothing from Henry VIII — a red velvet cap gifted to Waterford in 1536, embroidered with a Tudor Rose. Displayed alongside the ceremonial Bearing Sword given by Edward IV in 1462.
Join a 45-minute guided tour led by knowledgeable guides (sometimes in costume) through the medieval chambers and exhibits. Multimedia audio guides are also available. Tours run daily — enquire at reception.
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