Museum on Waterford's history opens

THE BISHOP’S Palace museum was officially opened by Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport Leo Varadkar in Waterford last night.

The museum reveals the story of Waterford from 1700 to the 1970s and contains many items of national and international significance, including the only surviving Bonaparte “mourning cross”, which was one of 12 produced upon Napoleon Bonaparte’s death in 1821. It also contains the Penrose decanter, the oldest surviving piece of Waterford Crystal, which dates back to 1789.

It features two garden areas, both concepts of high-profile gardener Diarmuid Gavin, who recently received the Gold Medal at the Chelsea Flower Show 2011.

Last night’s opening took place following a €2.7 million restoration and refurbishment of the building which is at the heart of the regenerated Viking Triangle in the city.

The area also includes Reginald’s Tower and a purpose-built medieval museum. These and the Bishop’s Palace will contain the Museum of Treasures that was previously housed at The Granary.

Mr Varadkar last night told those gathered that Waterford hosts one of the finest collections of Georgian buildings outside of Dublin and that the Viking Triangle constitutes one of the best cultural and tourist attractions that exists in Ireland.