Swimming Pools in Kilkenny, Swimming facilities in Kilkenny

The architect who built the White House in Washington, D.C., James Hoban, was raised on the Earl of Desart�s estate in Cuffesgrange, near Callan in Co. Kilkenny.

Irish legend describes Dunmore Cave, seven miles north of Kilkenny, as one of Ireland�s darkest places and the site where the monster Luchtigen 'The Lord of the Mice' was killed.

In 1922, the Butler family - namely Lord and Lady Ossory - were residents of the castle. The Irish Civil war, raged around them. Lord Ossory memorably wrote that he was woken at the "unreasonable hour of 5.30am" by his butler, who brought the news that Republican forces had seized and occupied his castle.

"To understand Kilkenny's unique character one should retire from the busy streets to the lovely Castle Park and, standing within the shadow of the ancient pile, contemplate the great jumble of roof-tops, old and young, which tumble down to the quiet-flowing river beneath. Here dove-grey spires and battlemented towers proclaim a city old in Christian living and wise in human experience. One can feel the heartbeat of an ancient civilised community."

Katherine M Lanigan, Gerald Tyler, 'Kilkenny, Its Architecture & History', Appletree Press 1977

In 1650 invading Cromwellian forces mounted an attack on Kilkenny castle and although it was initially successfully defended they eventually managed to take control of the city by another route.

Kilkenny Castle was founded in Medieval times, but its most significant moments have been played out during more recent history. The castle was featured in Oliver Cromwell's re-conquest of Ireland in 1650; and was besieged during the Irish Civil War in 1922.

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Bruce Springsteen - Cork and Kilkenny gigs sell out in 90 minutes

Kilkenny Castle is the most popular paid visitor attraction run by the OPW in Ireland

Alternative Kilkenny Arts Festival

Reopening of Kilfane Waterfall and Garden

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