Castle Gateway (Kilkenny (Cill Chainnigh))

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Today the principal entrance to Kilkenny Castle is through the impressive Classical gateway situated on the Parade.

The massive pedimented gateway based on the classical triumphal arch dates from the end of the seventeenth century. It was largely completed before 1710 and while the finely carved Corinthian capitals and a keystone executed in the lighter coloured stone are mostly original, the decorative festoons were added during the nineteenth century. Tall wooden doors guard the entranceway and the colourful coat of arms is that of the Butler/Ormonde family. When the castle was used as a residence, a porter or gatekeeper was employed to be on duty at all times and would probably have lived in small rooms within the gateway. The gateway range has been recently refurbished as part of the Parade Tower Conference Centre.

www.kilkennycastle.ie/en/TouroftheCastle/ATouroftheCast...