Carlingford was settled approximately 800 years ago by Norman knight Hugh de Lacy after laying the foundation stone to a castle on a strategic outcrop of rock. As was common in those days, a settlement sprang up, close to this fortress. Carlingford’s strategic position on the east coast of Ireland (along with Carrickfergus and Dundalk) made it a vital trading port. This trade led to its relative prosperity during the 14th, 15th and early 16th Centuries. Carlingford received 5 charters in total – the first in 1326 by Edward II and the last to occur in 1619 under James I. The increased trade encouraged the rich mercantile class to build – the results of which can still be seen today in the remains of the Mint and Taffee's Castle.