Ireland: Kilkenny – an Irish medieval city at its best

Back from another trip and excited to share some awesome pictures with you.

This time from a small medieval Irish city called Kilkenny.

Kilkenny is located in the South-East of Ireland and although it’s called a city, it’s far from it with its city centre population only being around 8000 people and its city area population being around 25000 people. Nevertheless, it’s a great weekend destination for culture and history lovers and also for people who fancy to spend their evening sipping some Smithwick’s at a fun pub (there are plenty of those around).

Processed with VSCO with c2 preset — Cute little streets with lots of cafes and boutique shops

Kilkenny’s most famous attraction is Kilkenny Castle and its parks, built in the late 12th century, which were opened to public just 50 years ago. This symbol of Norman occupation is really remarkable, if only it was preserved better. They have had some serious work done in the restoration process, however, it is still lacking, especially when it comes to interior design. Therefore the inside tour doesn’t take too much time. I personally think seeing Versaille ruined me – after that no castle or residence baffles me anymore. 🙂 Nevertheless, it is definitely worth a see, a MUST when being in the area, and the green space around the castle it is just breathtakingly beautiful.

Locals, big and small, on their way to play hurling – a sports game Kilkenny is famous for

After discovering the castle I suggest you to stroll around the city centre – there are cute shops and cafes on every corner. The food is good and so are the boutiques.

And last but not least, loads and loads of old cathedrals and abbeys in Kilkenny. I personally like to visit old churches, they have this mystic element to it. And don’t know if that’s too weird, but old graveyards are also worth to have a look at. Especially here in Ireland where they use the Celtic cross. The legend claims that Saint Patrick himself combined the symbol of Christianity with the sun cross to give pagan followers an idea of the importance of the cross. By linking it with the idea of the life-giving properties of the sun, a cross seemed more appealing to pagans.

Anyways, I truly suggest you to visit Kilkenny. However, it can get rather touristy in the weekends so if you can, choose a weekday to visit it instead. However, for those wishing to party, Kilkenny is definitely full of life on the weekends.

PS. Big thank you for Kevin’s family for hosting me!