Kilkenny, Medieval city in County Kilkenny, Ireland
Kilkenny is a city in southeast Ireland where the River Nore flows through the streets and passes under several stone bridges. Limestone facades line the narrow lanes, and many medieval buildings still stand among newer structures, giving the cityscape a dense, layered character.
The Normans built a castle here in the 12th century, laying the foundation for urban development. Over the centuries, the city served as a trading center and political meeting place, drawing merchants and rulers from across Ireland.
The name comes from the Irish "Cill Chainnigh," meaning "church of Cainnech," after an early Christian monk who founded a monastery here. Visitors today see bilingual signs throughout the streets, reflecting the city's connection to both Irish and English language traditions.
The city is reachable by train from Dublin in about an hour and a half, with regular connections from Heuston Station. Most sites in the center are within walking distance, as the lanes are narrow and short.
Craftsmen have produced items from black marble here for centuries, a dark limestone quarried in the area. This stone gave the city its nickname, and small workshops still sell handmade pieces.
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