Within These Walls

A Heritage Week 2026 Presentation by Community Historian Brendan Matthews

As part of Heritage Week 2026, themed Heritage at Risk, join community historian

Brendan Matthews at the substantial remains of Drogheda’s medieval defensive town walls, for a talk about the history, purpose and preservation of these historic sites. Brendan will explore why these defensive walls surrounded the newly established town in the 13th century and how they began to decline from the mid-18th century onwards. He will also delve into why it is important to preserve, protect and promote what remains of Drogheda’s medieval town walls. Here in the West Gate quarter, a substantial section survives, extending from the site of the former medieval West Gate towards the River Boyne; a powerful example of Local Heritage at Risk.

The presentation will last approximately one hour and will be delivered in a relaxed and informal manner. Attendees will meet at the Garda Station car park at West Gate, on Sunday, August 23rd at 11am.

Meeting: Garda Station car park, West Gate

Time: 11am, Sunday August 23rd

Free event and all are welcome.

Brendan Matthews

Brendan Matthews is an independent historian and historical researcher, specialising in community and social history.

He has published widely in print and online media and is a regular contributor to radio and television on various events and periods in Irish history.