Beyond the fact that this city still lives with the dual identity of Loyalist Protestants who refer to their home as ”Londonderry” and Nationalist Catholics who refer to it as “Derry”, this is a really charming and welcoming place. There seems to be further movement in reconciliation and the ability to live together here than what we saw in Belfast. Although throughout Northern Ireland they are seeing a bit of a resurgence in hostilities triggered by Brexit (losing their trade agreements with the EU) as well as potential legislation that would hamper a Northern Ireland citizen’s ability to litigate and see justice from prior harm and loss of life during the troubles (Britain’s desire to put the “troubles” behind them).
The first thing to welcome you to the city is the fairly new (2011) Peace Bridge, a pedestrian crossing between the city of Derry and the other side of the River Foyle where more Protestants tended to live. It is a beautiful landmark, heavily used by citizens to cross back and forth to new restaurant and music venues across the way. We were entertained by several outdoor concerts (since our hotel was right across the river) starting with a Rave and ending with an ABBA tribute band! Everyone in Ireland loves music and there was mass attendance at both.That’s our hotel – the tan building on the right. Great location!Derry is known for its intact 17th Century wall with 7 gates to enter the city center. It’s a beautiful wide walkway, approximately one mile in length, and a great place to view the more picturesque and historic sites. Although the city was subject to many sieges (the longest lasting 105 days), it is one of the few European walled cities that never saw its fortifications breached. For this reason it is also called the Maiden City. We took a free city guided walk for a great overview of the history and architecture of the city…highly recommended if you ever visit. Oh look, it’s the Derry Girls (the city is incredibly proud of the show)! Our city guide relayed she went to school with the show’s creator, Lisa McGee, and although she wouldn’t divulge any specifics she did lay claim that many of the show’s story lines did in fact happen. The Guild Hall…if you watched Derry Girls, this is where Bill Clinton made his famous speech to encourage the peace process. Guild Halls, the home of city or provincial governments, are often beautiful buildings. We enjoyed a lovely little pub on the back side!
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