Museum culture in Kilkenny, Kilkenny!

St. Canice’s Cathedral and Round Tower

Why Visit?

Discovering St. Canice’s Cathedral and Round Tower: A Timeless Journey

Welcome to Kilkenny, Ireland, where the medieval meets the modern. Your cultural exploration begins at the magnificent St. Canice’s Cathedral and Round Tower, an integral piece of Ireland’s ecclesiastical heritage and a must-visit for any history enthusiast.

Getting There

St. Canice’s Cathedral is conveniently located in the heart of Kilkenny City, just a short walk from the central High Street. If you’re arriving by train, the Kilkenny Railway Station is merely a 10-minute walk away. For those driving, parking is available at nearby public car parks.

Start Your Tour - St. Canice’s Cathedral

Begin your visit at the cathedral, one of Ireland’s most glorious Gothic creations. Open from 10:00 AM, the cathedral invites you to witness its stunning stained-glass windows and an impressive array of historical artefacts dating back to the 9th century. Admission is around €4, and guided tours are available, offering insights into the site’s rich history, including its establishment alongside an earlier monastic site founded by St. Canice in the 6th century.

Climb the Round Tower

Just adjacent to the cathedral stands the Round Tower, one of only two such towers in Ireland that visitors can climb. Dare to ascend the ancient steps and be rewarded with panoramic views of Kilkenny and the surrounding countryside. The tower is about 30 meters high and provides a unique perspective on the area"s layout and the strategic significance of this historic site.

Interesting Facts

- St. Canice’s Cathedral houses the throne of the Bishop of Ossory and features a unique stone-carved chair from 1120.

- The Round Tower, built in the 9th century, served as both a bell tower and a place of refuge from invaders.

Concluding Your Visit

Cap off your tour by strolling the cathedral’s serene grounds. Take a moment to soak in the peaceful atmosphere and reflect on the centuries of worship and history that permeate this remarkable location.

Whether you"re a history buff, architecture enthusiast, or simply in search of a peaceful retreat, St. Canice’s Cathedral and Round Tower promise a captivating and enriching experience.

Museum Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to museum travelers.

Dunmore Cave

Why Visit?

Discover the Depths of History: A Day at Dunmore Cave

Getting There

Begin your adventure to Dunmore Cave, located in County Kilkenny, Ireland. Accessible by car, it"s just a 15-minute ride north of Kilkenny City. Follow the N77 towards Ballyfoyle; signage along the road will guide you to this fascinating natural wonder. For those relying on public transport, take a local bus towards Castlecomer and alight at Ballyfoyle, then enjoy a scenic walk to the cave.

Your Visit

Arrive early at Dunmore Cave to beat the crowds and fully immerse yourself in its mystical silence. Open from 9:30 AM, the cave offers hourly guided tours that delve into both the geological and historical significance of this site. As you descend into the cavern, notice the striking formations of stalactites and stalagmites meticulously crafted by nature over millions of years.

Highlights and Facts

Dunmore Cave is not just a geological marvel; it"s steeped in rich history. It was the site of a Viking massacre in 928 AD, and artifacts from the era have been discovered within the cave. The most extraordinary find is the Dunmore Cave Hoard, which includes silver and other treasures that hint at the cave"s use as a place of refuge and concealment.

The "Market Cross" stalagmite is one of the cave"s most famous natural sculptures, impressing visitors with its monumental size and intricate detail. As you explore, your guide will recount tales and legends associated with the cave, making the chilly underground passages come alive with echoes of the past.

Wrapping Up

Conclude your tour in the visitor center, where interactive displays and exhibits provide deeper insights into the cave"s historical context and natural environment. Don"t forget to stop by the gift shop for souvenirs that capture the essence of Dunmore Cave’s mysterious beauty.

A visit to Dunmore Cave is a journey through time, where history and geology intertwine beneath the Irish landscape, offering a unique peek into the natural and historical tapestry of Kilkenny.

Museum Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to museum travelers.