Vikings landed in Ireland around 795 AD and began plundering monasteries and settlements for riches and to capture slaves. In the mid-9th century, Vikings established a base which took advantage of the natural harbour at Wicklow. It is from this chapter of Wicklow's history that the name 'Wicklow' originates. [15] Black Castle, 1830

Wicklow, our beautiful county town, has a history going back well over 3,000 years. From the earliest settlers to the present day, the town which we now know as Wicklow, due to its Viking origins, has an exciting story to tell.

The old Irish name for the town Chill Mhantain dates back to the time of St. Patrick and translates as the church of ‘gubby’ or ‘gap toothed.’ This comes in tradition, from an attempt by Patrick and his followers to land at Wicklow.

The county of Wicklow is so named after its principal town. Although the name comes from its former Norse settlers, there is some confusion as to whether its origin is in Viking Alo (Viking meadow) or Wiggingne Lough (the lake of ships).

Mar 30, 2020 · Wicklow’s majestic scenery, abundant woodlands and natural resources attracted Anglo Irish settlers to establish some of Ireland’s best Historic Houses at Killruddery, Russborough, Avondale and Powerscourt.

County Wicklow was the last of the traditional counties of Ireland to be shired in 1606 from land previously part of counties Dublin and Carlow. Established as a distinct county, it was aimed at controlling local groups such as the O'Byrnes.

Apr 28, 2020 · Although the name comes from its former Norse settlers, there is some confusion as to whether its origin is in Viking Alo (Viking meadow) or Wiggingne Lough (the lake of ships). Whichever is the case, the name Wicklow has been passed down to us. In Irish the county is known as Cill Mhantain (Mantan’s Church).

Apr 28, 2020 · The following descriptions of the most important towns in Wicklow are mainly derived from Samuel Lewis’ ‘Topographical Dictionary of Ireland’. These extracts give an insight into the respective histories and state of these towns in 1837, when it was published.

The Wicklow Town Heritage Trail covers our town’s history over 25 stops from the arrival of St. Patrick in 432 up to the establishment of the Irish Free State in 1922. Learn about the coming of Christianity with the Town’s change of name to Cill Mhantáin (The Church of Manntan) and the arrival here of the Vikings with the result that the ...

May 17, 2019 · An attack on the castle in 1641 would be the catalyst for a reprisal attack by British forces where 300 Wicklow locals were slaughtered. Though its history may be ravaged by war and death, The Black Castle continues to be a popular attraction for tourists and a popular haunt for Wicklow’s locals.