Summary:

Discover Drogheda: A Town with Rich Historical Significance

Should You Visit Drogheda?

At first glance, the twin towns north of Dublin might not seem remarkable. However, the presence of ancient churches, Georgian architecture, and the head of St. Oliver Plunkett may entice visitors to explore this captivating town. The splendid medieval town gate is another highlight that deserves attention.

Drogheda is nestled at the mouth of the Boyne River and serves as the southernmost town in County Louth. Historically, part of Drogheda belonged to County Meath, and it has long been recognized as a bottleneck on the route from Dublin to Belfast, now bypassed by the Boyne bridge and the M1. This modern bypass would have been a welcome convenience in Cromwell’s era.

A Short History of Drogheda

Drogheda’s name originates from the Irish “Droichead Átha,” meaning “bridge at the ford,” which aptly describes the settlement’s location. Historically, this bridge facilitated trade and defense, leading to the emergence of two towns: Drogheda-in-Meath and Drogheda-in-Oriel. Eventually, in 1412, these towns unified into a single entity known as the “County of the Town of Drogheda,” later becoming part of County Louth in 1898.

During the Middle Ages, Drogheda played a critical role within the “pale” and briefly hosted the Irish Parliament. Its strategic importance often led to violent confrontations, including the notorious siege by Oliver Cromwell in September 1649, resulting in a massacre that left a lasting mark on Irish history.

In 1690, during the Williamite Wars, Drogheda’s defenses held strong as King William’s troops chose to bypass the town, crossing the Boyne River at Oldbridge. This event is famously connected to the Battle of the Boyne, a significant moment in Irish heritage.

The 19th century saw Drogheda evolve into a thriving commercial and industrial center, with maritime connections to Liverpool facilitated by the Drogheda Steam Packet Company. Despite a gradual decline in the 20th century, the town experienced a boom during the “Celtic Tiger” years, becoming a suburban extension of Dublin.

Places to Visit in Drogheda

A leisurely walk around Drogheda’s center can be accomplished in under an hour, though the Millmount Museum deserves an extra visit. While parking can be challenging, follow the signs for town center parking and explore on foot:

• St. Laurence’s Gate: This gate, located at the intersection of Laurence Street and Palace Street, remains one of the last vestiges of Drogheda’s medieval walls.
• St. Mary Magdalen’s Tower: Situated on one of the town’s highest points, this medieval bell tower is all that remains of the original friary.
• St. Peter’s Church: Known for its intriguing churchyard, where one can find a medieval grave slab depicting the deceased as skeletons, offering a haunting memento mori.
• Another St. Peter’s Church: This Catholic church is a prominent pilgrimage site that houses the head of St. Oliver Plunkett behind protective glass.
• Tholsel: The historic old town hall can be found at the junction of West Street and Shop Street, showcasing local heritage.
• Millmount Museum: Located in Barrack Street, this museum is perched on the site of a former castle and features exhibitions focused on local history and industrial evolution.

Drogheda Miscellany

For those intrigued by railway history, a visit to the Irish Rail station is worthwhile, where you can view the impressive Boyne Viaduct.

Drogheda United, a prominent soccer team in Ireland, proudly showcases its trophies. Their home ground is situated on Windmill Road.

A local myth suggests that the star and crescent symbol on the town’s arms were added in thanks to the Ottoman Empire, which allegedly provided food during the great famine. Nevertheless, historical evidence does not support this tale, indicating that the symbols predate this tragic event.