Dundalk, Ireland
- This article is about Dundalk in Ireland. For other towns of the same name see: Dundalk (disambiguation).
Dundalk (Irish: Dún Dealgan) is a town in County Louth in the Republic of Ireland, close to the border with Northern Ireland. It takes its name from Dun Dealgan, Dalga?s fort home closely associated with the famous mythical warrior Cuchulainn and was granted its charter in 1189AD. It is sited on the lowest bridging point of the Castletown River.
Dundalk is situated in one of the most historic scenic and historical parts of Ireland; the Boyne valley is only fifteen minutes' drive away. Its coastline on the Irish Sea and the amenities of Carlingford Lough are complimented by outstanding hill and rural topography which attract both local and visitors interest.
Today?s Dundalk retains the linear characteristics of a medieval town, although there is evidence of prehistoric and early Christian settlements. The town is now the sixth largest conurbation in Ireland in population and is strategically located on the East Coast half-way between Dublin and Belfast, the two largest cities on the island. The town has a total population of 32,505 (2002 Census).
- See also: List of towns in the Republic of Ireland
