Double Bastion: Historic Stronghold on Derry’s City Walls

Origins and Military Significance of the Double Bastion

The Double Bastion is part of the extensive 17th-century defensive walls encircling Derry-Londonderry, built between 1613 and 1618 by the Irish Society to protect Protestant settlers during the Plantation of Ulster. This bastion was a crucial defensive platform during the 1689 Siege of Derry, where the city withstood a prolonged attack by forces loyal to King James II. The bastion's strategic location allowed defenders to mount artillery, including the famed 'Roaring Meg' cannon, which was instrumental in repelling the besiegers.

Roaring Meg: The Cannon That Roared Through History

'Roaring Meg' is the most renowned cannon in Derry, weighing nearly 1,800 kilograms and gifted to the city in 1642 by the Fishmongers' Company of London. It required a team of six men to operate, with coordinated efforts to load, aim, and fire. The cannon was pivotal during the 1689 siege, symbolizing the city's resilience. Restored to its former glory, Roaring Meg remains prominently displayed on the Double Bastion, drawing visitors fascinated by its historical and mechanical significance.

Architectural and Environmental Features of the Bastion

The Double Bastion juts out from the city walls, offering a fortified vantage point with thick stone construction typical of early 17th-century military architecture. The walls themselves vary in width from 12 to 35 feet and stand nearly 20 feet high, constructed from local stone and sandstone. From this elevated platform, visitors can enjoy sweeping views over the Bogside, a neighborhood that was once a focal point of conflict during the Troubles but now reflects a peaceful urban landscape.

The Bastion’s Role in Derry’s Complex History

Beyond its 17th-century military role, the Double Bastion witnessed events during the Troubles, including the tragic Bloody Sunday in 1972, when a civil rights march turned deadly nearby. The bastion and the city walls embody the layered history of Derry, from its origins as a monastic settlement through colonial struggles, sieges, and modern political conflict. Today, the site stands as a symbol of endurance and reconciliation in a city that has transformed from division to shared community.

Visitor Experience and Surrounding Attractions

Visitors to the Double Bastion can explore the city walls walkway, which is one of the best-preserved examples of walled cities in Europe. Alongside the bastion, the walls feature 24 restored cannons and several other bastions, gates, and historical markers. Nearby attractions include the Guildhall, the Peace Bridge, and cultural sites that narrate Derry’s rich heritage. The bastion’s peaceful garden areas provide a tranquil setting for reflection amid the city’s vibrant cultural scene.

Preservation and Cultural Importance Today

The Double Bastion and the city walls are protected heritage landmarks managed to preserve their historical integrity. Restoration efforts, particularly the 2005 cannon refurbishment, have maintained the site’s authenticity. The bastion continues to serve as a powerful educational resource and a poignant reminder of Derry’s resilience, attracting history enthusiasts, cultural tourists, and locals alike who value its unique place in Northern Ireland’s story.