The present building dates back to 1202-1285 and has long been associated with the town. The name Kilkenny (Cill Chainnigh) literally means “Church of Canice”. The medieval effigy tombs here are some of the finest surviving medieval funerary monuments in Ireland.
The tower is the oldest building in Kilkenny dating back to 1111
We did not fancy climbing to the top of the tower
Tomb slab
Effigy tomb of James Schorthals (died 1534)
A life size figure of the dead person lying on top the tomb
The six figures at the bottom are known as tomb weepers
Sir John Grace (died 1552)
Bishop de Ledrede
He brought Alice Kyteler to trial for witchcraft
Piers Butler (died 1539) and wife
Effigy tombs of husband and wife are very common
The wife wearing a two-horned head dress
James Butler (died 1546)
John Grace and Honorina Brenach
John Butler (died 1854)
It was made 300 years later than the rest and certainly more intricate
Richard Butler died 1571
Elicia Butler dressed as a nun
Honorina Grace (died 1596)
A new stone seat to commemorate an anniversary of St Canice
