The original castle built in 1195 controlling a fording-point of the River Nore, was a symbol of Norman occupation and back in the 12th century defended the city. It's a massive spectacular building eventually owned by a wealthy, politically astute family for several hundred years. Now it is maintained by the State.
Last evening just before dusk we looked down from a bridge over the River Nore all bundled in our warm clothing in the pouring rain. Two paddlers in a canoe whooshed under the bridge wearing shorts and tee shirts. These Irish are a hardy lot. You can see the castle in the background.
A cosy bench in the castle.
After dinner, while men smoked cigars and drank brandy, women retired to the Withdrawing Room to avoid the foul air.
Leaded glass in the castle.
Across the street from the castle is the Kilkenny Design Centre housed in the castle's former stables.
There are many beautiful Irish handloomed wool blankets, throws and other unique items for sale here.
Pottery objet d'art.
An upstairs window from the inside. You can see the thickness of the walls.
Window from the outside.
Guinness beer kegs.
Talbot's tower, the original medieval drum tower at the entance to the old, heavily fortified city.
This stone marks the place and date of the wall around the city.
Tomorrow we drive Kinsale through Cork, stopping em route at the Rock of Cashel.
See you soon.
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