Kilkenny Castle 2017

The most immediate attraction is Kilkenny castle which dates back to 1195. It replaced a wooden castle built by Strongbow (Richard de Clare) and... more

by Ralph Nordstrom

Title

Kilkenny Castle 2017

Artist

Ralph Nordstrom

Medium

Photograph

Description

The most immediate attraction is Kilkenny castle which dates back to 1195. It replaced a wooden castle built by Strongbow (Richard de Clare) and other invading Norman knights some twenty years earlier. It is situated on a high point overlooking the River Nore and guards a key river ford and the convergence of important historical trade routes. Like most castles, Kilkenny castles experienced periods of vibrant activity and abandonment and the deterioration that surely followed.

Today, little evidence remains of the political tides that swept back and forth over the castle and the battles that raged there, even as late as 1922 during the Irish Civil War when the Republicans were besieged by Irish Free State forces. The castle was severely damaged, requiring years to repair.

What we enjoyed in our visit was the 19th century restoration by the powerful and prestigious Butlers of Ormonde, who had established a dynasty in the castle dating back to 1391. The 19th century Butler’s restoration returned the castle to its original Medieval appearance. In 1967 ownership of the castle was transferred from the Butler family to the Office of Public Works for £50. The office opened the castle to the public and continues to oversee its restoration.

Uploaded

December 22nd, 2017