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Waterford's most historic building is Reginald's Tower (daily 10am-5pm; GBP1.50/?1.90; Heritage Card), around half a mile east along the quays from Waterford Treasures. A large cylindrical late twelfth- or early thirteenth-century tower, its design is similar to the Scottish broch, with a concealed stairway built within its massive wall; the original Viking tower which stood here was built in 1003. It was the most substantial of the seventeen defensive towers that encircled the city in medieval times. Inside a display details its history and that of the powerful Waterford Vikings, their struggles with the Anglo-Normans, and the subsequent arrival of the English Crown. Much of this material is covered in a far more lively manner in the Waterford Treasures exhibition, but it's still worth visiting Reginald's Tower to absorb some sense of the raw power of its various former incumbents. Wander up Bailey's New Street, just behind Reginald's Tower, and you soon come to Waterford's other important medieval building, the French Church , on Greyfriars (key from Reginald's Tower). Founded by Franciscans in 1240, the church served as an almshouse in the sixteenth century, and from 1693 to 1815 was used as a place of worship by French Huguenot refugees, whom the city sheltered in their exile from persecution at home. It's now a solid, roofless ruin with a complete tower and fine east triple-lancet window. Stones at the base of the outer windows are decorated with comic carved figures, and the church contains some interesting carved burial slabs, including that of Sir Neal O'Neill, who accompanied James II in his flight from the Battle of the Boyne. The old church that stands nearby holds the Waterford Municipal Art Collection , featuring work by major twentieth-century Irish painters, including Jack Yeats, Louis Le Brocquy, Paul Henry, Lamb and Keating; for latest details, contact the tourist office.
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