Kilkenny Castle – An Unforgettable Journey Through History
Kilkenny Castle is a stunning castle located on the banks of the River Nore in Kilkenny, Ireland. It is an iconic landmark in the city and has been the site of many significant events in Irish history. Built in the late 12th century, Kilkenny Castle was the stronghold of the powerful Butler dynasty for centuries until 1967 when it was sold to the state. Today, the castle is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Kilkenny, attracting visitors from all over the world.
History of Kilkenny Castle
Kilkenny Castle was built in the late 12th century by William Marshal, the Earl of Pembroke, on a strategic site overlooking the River Nore. The castle was a prestigious symbol of his power and wealth and was the centre of the Butler dynasty for centuries. The castle was passed down through the generations and was remodelled and extended in the 16th and 17th centuries. It was the centre of the court of James II in 1690 and was the scene of several battles during the Irish Rebellion of 1798. In 1967, the castle was sold to the state and underwent extensive restoration and renovation works.
Things to Do at Kilkenny Castle
Kilkenny Castle is now open to the public and visitors can explore the grounds and discover the history of the castle. The castle is open daily and offers guided tours of the castle, giving visitors the chance to learn more about its history. There are also a number of other activities available, such as visiting the castle’s Victorian kitchen, exploring the landscaped gardens and getting a bird’s eye view from the castle’s battlements. The castle is also home to a museum, which showcases the history of Kilkenny and its people.
The Grounds
The grounds of the castle are just as impressive as the castle itself and are home to some of Kilkenny’s most iconic landmarks. The landscaped gardens are a popular spot for visitors to explore and include a range of features such as the ornamental lake, the rose garden and a formal parterre. The grounds also house the Butler Art Gallery and the Butler Historical Museum, which are both dedicated to the history of Kilkenny and the Butler dynasty.
The Castle Today
Kilkenny Castle is now one of the most popular tourist attractions in Ireland. The castle is open daily and offers guided tours, allowing visitors to explore the castle and learn more about its history. The castle is also home to a number of events throughout the year, such as festivals and exhibitions. Kilkenny Castle is a must-see for any visitor to the city and is sure to provide an unforgettable journey through history.
Conclusion
Kilkenny Castle is a beautiful castle located on the banks of the River Nore in Kilkenny, Ireland. It is an iconic landmark in the city and has been the site of many significant events in Irish history. Today, the castle is open to the public and offers guided tours of the castle and its grounds, as well as a number of other activities such as exploring the landscaped gardens and visiting the castle’s museum. Kilkenny Castle is a must-see for any visitor to the city and is sure to provide an unforgettable journey through history.