The walls surrounding the City of Derry are 26 feet high and as much as 30 feet wide in certain areas. Construction was completed in 1618, funded by the London trade guilds in charge of the plantation of new settlers from England and Scotland. The original purpose was to serve as a defense from Donegal’s Gaelic chieftains, and protect commerce in the growing port.
Due to the centuries of growth and development, most of the city lies beyond the perimeter of these ancient walls, which have never been breached in battle, despite even the attempt of the forces of King James II in 1689. More than 7,000 of the 20,000 or so citizens died from starvation or illness, but the city stood firm throughout, protected by these massive walls.
Today, wall walks are a popular visitor attraction in Derry. There are now eight gates to the city, and the cannon stands of the siege are still visible.