Historical Derry buildings opened to the public
A number of Derry’s most historic buildings and locations are to be opened up to the public next month.
It is all part of European Heritage Open Days on September 10 and 11.
History and culture will be brought to life with over 300 property openings and events throughout Northern Ireland.
The programme features a wide variety of special events such as walking tours, history re-enactments and film screenings.
With all events free of charge and many family-friendly, everyone can take the opportunity to step back in time.
Locations in the Derry area opening for the weekend include the War Memorial and First Derry Presbyterian Church.
The War Memorial was erected in 1927.
It comprises statues of a soldier and sailor on plinths, flanking a higher statue of Victory holding aloft a laurel wreath, by English sculptor Vernon March.
In 2010 the garden around the Memorial was re-opened to the public following a community project which noted that the names on the memorial were quite evenly split between members of both of Northern Ireland's main communities.
The First Derry Presbyterian Church (pictured) was built in 1690 and was the first Presbyterian Church in the city.
Located on Upper Magazine Street it is the only Presbyterian church within the City Walls.
The 1690 church was replaced by the present building in 1780.
The recently-restored church, which reopened in May 2011, reflects many uniquely 18th century Presbyterian features.
The Blue Coat School Visitor Centre tells the unique story of how Presbyterianism arrived in North West Ulster.
Derry also offers you the opportunity to visit the ‘Community of the Dead’ in a tour of Derry City Cemetery.
Opening in 1853 the City Cemetery became the main burial place for both Protestants and Catholics; the wealthy and the poor; industrialists, merchants, city mayors, architects, surgeons and artists as well as tradesmen, labourers and paupers.
Three historical periods - Victorian, Edwardian and late-20th century - are reflected in the funerary architecture and design.
The tours of the City Cemetery, led by genealogist Brian Mitchell at a gentle pace in a spectacular setting with magnificent views over the Foyle and the city, will take in many stories.
If you have a story or want to send a photo or video to us please contact the Derry Now editorial team. Between 9am and 5pm Monday to Sunday please call 028 7129 6600 for Derry City stories or 028 7774 3970 for County Derry stories. Between 5pm and midnight please call or text 07825 711978. Or you can email john.gill@derrynews.net at any time.
