Kilkenny is known asthe creative heart of Ireland. This small town is more than 400 years old, buttoday it is a vibrant city with a reputation for its cutting edge art andculture. The medieval architecture of Kilkenny isa beautiful backdrop for the many cultural events that take place here everyyear, including the Kilkenny Arts Festival. Discover art galleries andrestaurants alongside traditional pubs in the narrow medieval streets.
Overlooking the town is Kilkenny Castle, whichdates from the 12th century. The castle is situated on the banks of the RiverNore and is surrounded by beautiful parks. Another major attraction is St.Canices Cathedral, a beautifully restored tribute to the 6th centurymonk after which Kilkenny is named. The tower isthe oldest building in Kilkenny and one of twosuch towers in Ireland which can be climbed. Weather permitting, it providesincredible views over the city.
Kilkenny really comesto life in the evenings and weekends when locals and visitors alike hit themany pubs and restaurants to enjoy a pint of the black stuff, the friendlyatmosphere and live music. The year is full of festivals of all kinds, coveringeverything from theatre to comedy to music and dance. In the summer, the cityoffers all kinds of street entertainment to accompany everything going on indoors.Exhibitions at the Butler Gallery and National Craft Gallery also contribute tothe thriving local art and cultural scene.
The compact city centre of Kilkennymeans you can easily explore it on foot. If you want to avoid masses oftourists who come here for festivals and events, you can visit on a weekday oroff-season. If you have limited time, half a day is enough to see the mainattractions. However, it's worth just wandering around for a while to soak upand simply enjoy the culture, history and merriment of that Kilkennyis so famous for.
