Derry

Derry, officially known as Londonderry, is a city in Northern Ireland. It is the second-largest city in Northern Ireland and the fourth-largest city on the island of Ireland. The old walled city lies on the west bank of the River Foyle, which is spanned by two road bridges and one footbridge. The city now covers both banks (Cityside on the west and Waterside on the east). The population of the city was 85,016 at the 2011 Census, while the Derry Urban Area had a population of 90,736.

History

The name Derry is an anglicisation of the Old Irish name Daire (modern Irish: Doire) meaning "oak grove". The area was granted to Colmcille by a local king and later became a monastic settlement. In the 12th century, the settlement was granted a Royal Charter by King Richard I of England and became a walled city. Throughout its history, Derry has been a site of cultural and political significance, particularly during the Plantation of Ulster, the Siege of Derry and the Troubles.

Geography

Derry is located in the northwest of Ireland, with the River Foyle forming a natural boundary between the cityside and the waterside areas. The city is near the border with County Donegal in the Republic of Ireland, with which it has had a close link for many centuries. The landscape is characterized by the hilly terrain that surrounds the city, providing scenic views of the river and the city itself.

Economy

The economy of Derry has historically been based on manufacturing, but in recent years, there has been a shift towards a more service-oriented economy. The city is home to the University of Ulster's Magee Campus, which has contributed to the growth of a vibrant cultural and arts scene. The city also benefits from tourism, with visitors drawn to its historical walls, museums, and cultural festivals.

Culture

Derry is renowned for its cultural scene, hosting numerous festivals throughout the year, including the Foyle Film Festival and the Derry Jazz Festival. The city is also known for its historic walls, which date back to the early 17th century and are among the best-preserved city walls in Europe. The Tower Museum and the Guildhall are among the city's most popular attractions.

Transport

Derry is served by the City of Derry Airport, which offers flights to destinations within the UK and Ireland. The city also has a railway station, Derry Londonderry Railway Station, which connects it to Belfast and other parts of Northern Ireland. Road connections include the A2 road to Coleraine and the A5 road to Dublin.

Education

The city has a range of educational institutions, including primary, secondary, and tertiary institutions. The University of Ulster's Magee Campus is a key higher education institution in the city, offering a range of undergraduate and postgraduate courses.

See also

• History of Derry
• List of people from Derry
• Derry City Council