The You Are Now Entering Free Derry Mural is a slogan that is the cornerstone of the city’s recent history. The site consists of those six words on the side of a freestanding gable wall. Find out about the self-declared autonomous region of nationalists known as Free Derry between 1969 and 1972.
The mural stands in an area full of intriguing sites relating to the Troubles in Ireland, which stem from the struggle between Irish nationalists and British loyalists. Capture photos of the iconic slogan painted in black capital letters on a white background. It was first painted by local activist John Casey in 1969 and has been recoated several times over the decades. Hear about murals that sprang up in retaliation around the country, such as You Are Now Entering Loyalist Sandy Row.
Learn about the battles and political struggles that caused havoc in Ireland for centuries. Hear tales of the Battle of the Bogside in 1969 and Bloody Sunday in 1972. Celebrations of victories took place near this wall.
Note the other murals and memorials in this region, such as the tribute to the 1981 Irish Hunger Strike. Ten protesters died of starvation during the strike, which came at the end of a 5-year protest by republican prisoners in Northern Ireland.
Explore the various murals around the city that satirize and commemorate key political events, such as the Troubles, the civil rights movement and the world wars. These paintings have become an important part of Derry’s culture and identity.
The site is also known as Free Derry Corner. Visit the public mural at any time of day for free.
The You Are Now Entering Free Derry Mural is a 5-minute walk from the Diamond and is just northwest of the Derry City Walls. Visit nearby attractions such as the Museum of Free Derry and Bloody Sunday Memorial and St. Columb’s Cathedral.
