History in the re-making: New campaign brings Kilkenny’s rich medieval past to life

Kilkenny Tourism has launched an innovative new campaign that seeks to capitalise on our city’s rich medieval history.

The Living History, Loving Kilkenny promotion explores the city’s 900-year-old history by linking up a large range of local attractions. New events and attractions have lined up exhibitions for visitors to explore at venus such as the Medieval Mile (pictured), cultural centres, food destinations, castles and historic houses.

Many of Kilkenny’s streets, gardens and buildings have been transformed with a series of outdoor exhibitions as part of the Connected Sculpture Trail.

More than 30 works by 20 artists, designers and craftspeople, using multiple sites along Kilkenny’s Medieval Mile will be open next month – and entry will be free.

The new campaign comes as the Butler Gallery recently reopened its doors at the historic Evans’ home.

A new audio guide for visitors, entitled Medieval Kilkenny Tour, recounts the origins of the city in the sixth century, when a monastery was founded by St Canice, and follows the area’s progress through the centuries. The guide can be streamed to mobiles, tablets and computers.

Commenting about new campaign, Kilkenny Tourism chairperson Brian Tyrrell said the huge amount of local historic attractions on offer will be of great interest to many visitors looking to enjoy a quality staycation this Autumn, especially for people over 55.

“At Kilkenny Tourism, we understand that the kind of holiday you take in your late 50’s,60’s or 70’s is very different from that you take when you are 20 years old! The good news is that Kilkenny has something to meet almost every need and interest, which means it’s time to start checking off some of those bucket list items and explore our medieval city,” said Mr Tyrell.

PHOTO: Visit Kilkenny