Sunday, March 4, 2012

Derry, Northern Ireland


The Historical City of Derry
Main picture: The Walls, Inset: The Walls and market stalls

Poto: Northern Ireland Tourist Board

postmarked in 2012 with an Ireland 'Red Deer' stamp

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Derry or Londonderry is the second-biggest city in Northern Ireland and the fourth-biggest city on the island of Ireland.

It is the only remaining completely intact walled city in Ireland and one of the finest examples of a walled city in Europe.

The Walls were built during the period 1613-1619 by The Honourable The Irish Society as defences for early 17th century settlers from England and Scotland. The Walls, which are approximately 1 mile (1.5 km) in circumference and which vary in height and width between 12 and 35 feet (4 to 12 metres), are completely intact and form a walkway around the inner city. They provide a unique promenade to view the layout of the original town which still preserves its Renaissance style street plan.

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