The French Tower
The top of Castle St. is dominated by the French Tower. The origin of the name is uncertain. Many of the Anglo-Norman settlers who came to Waterford in the wake of the invasion were of French origin and the tower may owe its name to these settlers. 

It may be connected with the Huguenot, French Protestant refugees who settled in Waterford after the victory of William of Orange at the Boyne in 1690. 
The French settlers mixed well with the local population and contributed much to the city's development. 
The 'Blaa' (a very popular and traditional breakfast time bread found only in Waterford) is said to owe it's origins to the 17 century immigrants who introduced this type of white bread to the city. 
The French called it 'Pain Blanc' which was corrupted by the Waterfordians to 'Blaa'


French and Watch Towers 

The Watch Tower

Its cydrincal shape suggests that this tower dates from the 13th century. However you will see that the openings are gun loops as opposed to arrow loops suggesting that if the tower dates from the 13th century then its arrow loops were replaced in the 15th 16th century to facilitate artillery. 

At the back of the tower you can see two entrances, one at ground level and the 2nd at wall walk level. 

The absence of two windows on the inner elevation of the tower suggests that it functioned exclusively as a defensive structure and was not intended to be occupied as a residence during peace.