Dalkey : A Town of the Archbishop

This is a study of society and economy in a small medieval Irish town.

In the Middle Ages Dalkey was of some significance as a deep-water haven on a shallow and dangerous Dublin Bay.

Its early Gaelic and Viking origins are noted. Its status within the Anglo-Norman manorial system and its urban character are investigated, using primary sources and relevant secondary material.

Traditionally, Dalkey has been regarded as the medieval port of Dublin.

This is examined in detail and it is concluded that it was not a port but an anchorage.

It was dominated, economically and socially, by the local gentry families and, most importantly, by the city of Dublin.