St Canice’s Cathedral

St Canice’s Cathedral, Ireland’s best-preserved medieval Cathedral has been an important site of Christian worship since the 6th Century. It remains a hallowed place and a site of significant historical interest for both pilgrims and tourists.

Built between 1202 and 1285, St Canice’s Cathedral has retained its original style and form, hosting over 800 years of continuous worship. Visitors can marvel at the wonderful stained glass and explore the largest collection of ancient monuments in Ireland. 

We highly recommend embarking on a guided tour for a captivating journey through the centuries. Led by knowledgeable and passionate guides, these tours offer a unique opportunity to delve into the rich history, remarkable architecture and spiritual significance of this iconic landmark.

Whether you’re a history enthusiast, an art lover or simply curious about the within this sacred space, the guided tours offer  a memorable and insightful experience. You’ll leave with a deep appreciate for St Canice’s Cathedral and its enduring legacy.

If you seek a bit of adventure, you can book a climb up the round tower, one of only two in Ireland open to the public. The ascent involves a series of internal ladders totalling seven floors and 121 steps. The effort is well worth it when you reach the summit and take in the magnificent view of Kilkenny and the surrounding area from the viewing platform. The tower also holds the seat of the Bishop of Ossory, dating back to 1120 AD.

St Canice’s also hosts a variety of events throughout the year, with one of our favourites being Ceoltóirí Kilkenny. Taking place every Tuesday evening from 18th June to 30th July, this vibrant and exciting event showcases the very best of Irish music, song, dance and storytelling. It offers an authentic traditional entertainment experience that captivates audiences and invites their participation.

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