Curious when these stone wonders were built? You may not believe it to look at them, but building began 401 years ago, back when King James I required defenses to keep the newly planted population safe from Irish rebels besieging the city. At 1.5 kilometres in circumference and varying thicknesses of between 3.5-10 metres, they did their job. In fact, Derry~Londonderry’s walls have never been breached. And the price to build such handsome, efficient walls? £10,757. A bargain.

There are seven gates (entrances) to the Walled City. First up, the originals: Shipquay Gate (originally the main point of entry from the River Foyle); Bishop’s Gate (sculpted heads represent the Foyle and Boyne rivers); Butcher's Gate (the animal market was once located right outside this entrance); and Ferryquay Gate, (overlooked the ferry quay on the River Foyle). Castle Gate, New Gate and Magazine Gate were added between 1790 and 1888.

Considering the troublesome history of the walls, it’s no surprise they’re dotted with a cannon or two. Icons of more turbulent times (two particular sieges in the 17th century saw these weapons smoke and thunder over the Foyle), the 24 cannons got a makeover in 2005 when they were waxed, sponged and repainted. They even had their barrels cleaned. Roaring Meg, located on the double bastion, remains the superstar.