Waterford (from the Old Norse: Veðrafjǫrðr/Vedrarfjord meaning "ram fjord" or "windy fjord" — Irish: Port Láirge meaning "Lárag's port") is the primary city of the South East region of Ireland. Founded in 914 AD by the Vikings, it is country's oldest city and its fifth largest. The city is situated at the head of Waterford Harbour (Loch Dá Chaoch/Cuan Phort Láirge).

Waterford was subjected to two sieges in 1649 and 1650, during the Cromwellian conquest of Ireland. It withstood the first siege but surrendered during the second siege on 6 August 1650.

Reginald's Tower is the oldest urban civic building in Ireland, and the oldest monument to retain its Viking name. To this day, it remains Waterford's most recognisable landmark. It is believed to be the first building in Ireland to use mortar.


The population of the city in 2006 was 49,240; of which 45,775 lived within the city limits, and 3,465 lived in the suburbs in County Kilkenny.

The River Suir, which flows through Waterford city, has provided a basis for its long maritime history. Waterford Port has been one of Ireland's major ports for over a millennium. In the 19th century shipbuilding was a major industry.

Today, Waterford is synonymous with Waterford Crystal the world over, a legacy of one of the city's most successful and enduring industries, glass making. Glass, or crystal, has been manufactured in the city since 1783. Waterford is the sister city of St. John's, Newfoundland and Labrador and Rochester, New York.