Wexford is a historic town in the southeastern part of Ireland.
Gurmun, Isolde’s father, sometimes held court at Wexford.
Wexford | 0 to 9th century AD
Prehistoric and Celtic Periods
The Wexford area has evidence of human habitation dating back to prehistoric times, with various arhaeological sites and artifacts from the Stone Age, Bronze Age, and Iron Age. During the Iron Age, the region was inhabited by Celtic peoples.
Viking Settlement and Influence | 9th century
In the ninth century, Vikings, who were seafaring warriors and traders, began to establish settlements and trading posts along the coast of Ireland, including the Wexford area. The Viking settlement in Wexford, known as Veisafjǫrðr in Old Norse, became and important center for trade and interaction with the Irish.
The Viking presence in Wexford led to cultural and economic exchanges between the Norse and the native Irish population. It is believed that the Vikings in Wexford maintained trade with other Viking settlements in Ireland and throughout the Viking world.
Early Medieval Period
As the Viking Age transitioned into the early medieval period, the Wexford area continued to be an important hub for trade and commerce. Over time, the Vikings in the region began to assimilate with the local Irish population.
Note
The Viking name for Wexford, Veisafjǫrðr is Old Norse. Veisa means “way,” fjǫrðr, means “fjord,” “a long arm of the sea.” The name can thus be translated as “way of the ford.” Some say it means “inlet of the mud flats” or “inlet of the way.” I asked my Norwegian relatives and they (like me) thinks the first alternative is the correct one.
Source
Tristan | Gottfried von Strassburg, early 13th century