Woodstown

Woodstown is a Viking settlement site on the River Suir in County Waterford that spreads over several hundred meters. The excavations have revealed a defended area with ditches that protected the community during its occupation.

The site dates back to the mid-9th century and remained occupied until the early 10th century, making it one of the oldest known Viking settlements in Ireland. Its discovery came by chance in 2003 during road construction work.

The finds tell a story of distant connections, with Islamic coins and Scandinavian weapons alongside local items discovered here. These objects show how traders and settlers brought goods and ideas from far away to this riverside settlement.

The site is not open to the public due to its protected status as a national monument and ongoing archaeological work. Visitors interested in the finds can see them displayed at Reginald's Tower in nearby Waterford City.

Among the discoveries was the grave of a Viking leader buried with weapons and personal belongings, pointing to the site's importance as a regional power center. This finding reveals that the settlement was not merely a trading post but also a seat of authority.