Tholsel

Kilkenny City


Kilkenny's Tholsel (City Hall) was built in 1761 on the spot where Dame Alice Kyteler’s maid Petronella was burned at the stake in 1324 for witchcraft (even if it was actually Dame Alice who was most likely the 'guilty' party). Architectural features include a five-arch cloister and an octagonal tower with a clock and copper weathervane. The interior is closed to the public.


Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Nearby Kilkenny City attractions

1. Medieval Mile Museum

0.03 MILES

Dating from the early 13th century, St Mary's Church has been converted into a fascinating modern museum that charts the history of Kilkenny in medieval…

2. Smithwick's Experience

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Until its closure, Smithwick's was Ireland’s oldest working brewery. John Smithwick founded the business in 1710 on the site of Kilkenny's 13th-century St…

3. Rothe House & Garden

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Dating from 1594, this is Ireland's finest example of a Tudor merchant's house, complete with a restored medieval garden. Built around a series of…

4. Butler Gallery

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The Butler Gallery is one of the country’s most important art galleries outside Dublin. Small exhibitions featuring the work of contemporary artists are…

5. Kilkenny Castle

0.2 MILES

Rising above the River Nore, Kilkenny Castle is one of Ireland's most visited heritage sites. Stronghold of the powerful Butler family, it has a history…

6. Black Freren Gate

0.21 MILES

This is the only gate from the old Norman city walls still standing, albeit with the help of metal bracing these days. Crumbling sections of the old walls…

7. National Design & Craft Gallery

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Contemporary Irish crafts are showcased at the imaginative National Design & Craft Gallery, set in former stables across the road from Kilkenny Castle,…

8. Black Abbey

0.22 MILES

Founded in 1225 by William Marshal, this Dominican abbey takes its name from the monks' black habits. Much of what survives dates from the 18th and 19th…

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