Kilkenny comes from the Irish “Cill Chainnigh,” meaning “church of Canice,” named after St. Canice, a 6th-century monk who founded a monastery there. The etymology derives from Old Irish “cill” (church) and “Cainnech” (Canice’s name, possibly meaning “handsome”). The first recorded use of “Cill Chainnigh” appears in the Annals of the Four Masters around the 6th century, with “Kilkenny” adopted in English records by the 13th century under Norman rule.
How the county got its name
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County Kilkenny:
Ireland’s county Kilkenny is a county of medieval charm, with Kilkenny City’s castle and St Canice’s Cathedral showcasing well-preserved architecture and round towers. The Dunmore Cave offers intriguing limestone formations, while the Nore Valley’s walking trails provide scenic beauty. Other attractions include the historic Jerpoint Abbey’s intricate carvings. Kilkenny is Ireland’s 16th largest county by size (2,062 square km) and 21st largest by population (104,160). Population peaked at 202,420 in 1841 and reached its lowest point, 60,463 in 1966. In terms of hospitality, Kilkenny is Ireland’s eleventh most visited tourist county with around 207,000 international visitors per year.
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