Sigtrygg Silkbeard ll
Waterford has seen a return of an ancient character that once ruled the Déise and Dublin- and much else besides.
Sigtrygg was married to Sláine, daughter of Brian Boru, they had one son who in turn had one son (before being killed in Wales) Ragnhild, from whom Gruffudd ap Cynan and the Kings of Gwynedd were descended.
A fierce warrior, Sigtrygg (also known in Ireland as Sitric) was born in the summer of 956.
It is in his honour that Experience Medieval Archery has been set up to coach medieval archery and through storytelling explain a little of the history and techniques of the medieval archer.
Sigtrygg in (Veðrafjǫrðr)Waterford, Next to Reginald's Tower - Ireland's oldest secular building.
Sigtrygg is available for festivals, garden parties, cultural events, and general murder and mayhem.
The world famous Waterford Crystal factory is directly opposite Waterford Viking Triangle. This area has some of the oldest (secular) buildings in Ireland - and much more besides.
No matter how small we are, we can all reach for the skies 🙌
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Experience Medieval Archery in Museum of Medieval Treasures in Waterford
Sigtrygg's family also conducted a double marriage alliance with Brian Boru, although he later realigned himself with the main leaders of the Leinster revolt of 1012–1014. He has a prominent role in the 12th-century Irish Cogadh Gaedhil re Gallaibh and the 13th century Icelandic Njal's Saga, as the main Norse leader at the Battle of Clontarf in 1014.
Sigtrygg's long reign spanned 46 years, until his abdication in 1036. During that period, his armies saw action in four of the five Irish provinces of the time. In particular, he conducted a long series of raids into territories such as Meath, Wicklow, Ulster, and perhaps even the coast of Wales. He also came into conflict with rival Norse kings, especially in Cork and Waterford.
He went on pilgrimage to Rome in 1028 and is associated with the foundation of Christ Church Cathedral in Dublin. Although Dublin underwent several reversals of fortune during his reign, on the whole trade in the city flourished. He died in 1042.
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