The big draw of the town, an imposing Anglo-Norman castle founded in the 12th century by William Marshal and rebuilt in the 19th century by the Butler family, who held it for over 600 years. The east wing is furnished in 19th-century style; the Long Gallery, hung with Butler family portraits, is the highlight. Guided tours run roughly every 20 minutes through the summer. The surrounding parkland is free to enter and pleasant for a walk. The Butler Gallery, in the former castle kitchen, shows contemporary art.
Kilkenny Castle
12th-century Anglo-Norman castle held by the Butlers for 600 years
A story
The Butler family held Kilkenny Castle for over six centuries — from 1391 to 1967, when the 6th Marquess of Ormonde handed it to the city for the nominal sum of £50. At the time it was in a dangerous state of disrepair and the family could no longer maintain it. The Irish government spent decades restoring it and opened it to the public in 1990. The £50 transaction is commemorated by a plaque inside.