Kilkenny Castle

Kilkenny Castle, sits atop high grounds at the SE end of Co. Kilkenny in Ireland. It rests beside the River Nore. It was built in the 13th century, replacing an earlier fortress built by Strongbow. Today, the structure forms 3 sides of a quadrangle and 3 of the 4 original round corner towers remain.

In the 14th century the castle was the main seat of the Butlers, the Earls and Dukes of Ormonde and during that time changed from medieval castle to restored chateau to Victorian country house.

Kilkenny Castle saw its last struggle in the Civil War of 1922, when it was taken over by Anti-Treatyites (who opposed the treaty with Britain dividing Ireland). But they surrendered peaceably after two days.