Kilkenny

After a great first day with our rental car, we arrived in Kilkenny yesterday in time to find our bed and breakfast, O'Malley's, and walk around the town for a little.  We ended the day with a warm cup of coffee in a beautiful historic pub,  had a good night's rest, and then set out to explore beautiful Kilkenny.

O'Malley's Bed and Breakfast was in a great location, the owner/hostess was wonderful, the rooms were attractive and comfortable, and the breakfast was delicious.

Kilkenny Castle

Our first stop this morning was Kilkenny Castle.   It was built in the 1200s, but has been remodeled over the years until the 1930s when the last family members lived there.  We were fascinated, because we were in a real castle, and because it was not crowded.  We were probably four of only about twenty people there, and we were free to roam from room to room.

The Black Abbey

From Kilkenny Castle we walked to the Black Abbey.  It was was established in 1225 as one of the first houses of the Dominican Order in Ireland, and it is steeped in Irish history.  Its name probably comes from the black cloaks worn by the friars.

 St. Canice's Cathedral

Next, we walked to the Cathedral, and were disappointed to find it closed for lunch.  Although we wanted to wait around for it to open, we knew that if we did we would not make it to our next destination.  As with everywhere we had visited so far, we wished we had more time.   St. Canice's was founded in the 6th century, and worship has taken place here for over 800 years. The Cathedral was certainly impressive from the outside, but oh how I wish we could have gone inside!

We walked back through the quaint medieval town to our car, and reluctantly traveled on.  And Art entertained us--as usual!

Rock of Cashel

We traveled to Cashel, enjoying the BEAUTIFUL scenery, and ate lunch at a little cafe when we arrived.  Much to our surprise, our server gave us vouchers for free admission to the castle.  We were thrilled, because as it turns out, it was SO COLD at the castle that it was difficult to remain there.  The castle is a ruin, under renovation, and sits on top of a hill with amazing views.  I'm very glad we went, but even more happy that we didn't have to pay for the experience!

We left Cashel, on the narrowest roads yet,

and headed towards the coastal town of Kinsale. 

We are loving every single thing about Ireland!