Climbing the Round Tower

The nearly 100-foot high Round Tower at St Canice’s is only one of two in Ireland that can still be climbed. So, of course, we climbed it!

Built in 1111, the tower is the oldest standing structure in Kilkenny. A bell tower — and a status symbol — when it was originally built, it was also used as a lookout tower and as a place to store valuables during sieges.

We climbed the narrow circular tower, ascending a steep, ladder-like staircase. Along the way, a recording kept checking on us, asking if the climb was going OK. It explained that due to the shallow foundation — just 2-feet deep, the tower leans some 2 feet off-plumb!! The disembodied voice was quick to assure us, however, that the tower ‘should’ remain standing until we reach the top!!! Good to know. But what happens after we reach the top? 🤣

While the narrow quarters and the steep stairs made us work for our reward, it was well worth expending the effort to see the expansive views from the top.Read more