Waterford’s iconic Viking sword, the Dragon Slayer, was removed on Saturday (July 27th) from its location at Bailey’s New Street, in the heart of the Viking Triangle, to facilitate repairs.
The 23-metre-long structure was created by master craftsman and renowned chainsaw sculptor, John Hayes of Special Branch Carvers and unveiled in December 2017. Hayes created the record-breaking sword from a felled tree from Ballinamona Woods and the sword depicts the story of Waterford across numerous panels, from the arrival of the Vikings to Waterford, the marriage of Strongbow and Aoife and the link between Waterford’s Vikings and the town of York.
The repair works will be carried out by Hayes and will take approximately 18 months to complete.
Commenting on the operation, Morris Conway, Senior Architect with Waterford City and County Council said, “These repair works are necessary to return the sword to its original state. Years of wear and tear have taken their toll on the structure, but we are pleased that its creator, John Hayes, will treat the sword to return it to its original impressive form.
“Upon completion, the refurbished Dragon Slayer sword will be returned to the city centre as part of Waterford City and County Council’s commitment to improving public realm works and enhancing the city’s rich historical narrative.”
