Laurence's Gate

Saint Laurence's Gate is a barbican with two circular towers connected by a stone wall and archway, rising approximately 40 feet (12 meters) across four floors. A bridge at the summit links the two towers and provides views across the town toward the river valley.

Construction began around 1280 as a defensive structure outside Drogheda's original town walls. The gate later faced military pressure during conflicts in the early 1300s as the town defended its position.

The gate symbolized Drogheda's importance during medieval times, serving as both a defensive barrier and a statement of the town's power and prosperity. It reflected how communities organized their protection and displayed their status through stone construction.

Visitors can climb interior stairs within the south tower to reach the upper levels and enjoy views of the surrounding landscape. Wear sturdy shoes, as the stone stairs are narrow, steep, and require careful footing.

The masonry displays irregular stone placement with blocks of varying sizes, visible from street level below and creating a distinctive pattern across the walls. This construction method was practical for medieval builders who worked with local stone available at the time.