Minister visits historical gem in heart of Kilkenny City

Minister of State Malcom Noonan visited one of Kilkenny’s most loved heritage sites, Rothe House and Gardens earlier this month.

He was welcomed by Ann Mulrooney, Chair of Rothe House Trust and General Manager of Rothe House, Valerie O’Sullivan.

In his role as Minister for Heritage and Electoral Reform, Minister Noonan has advocated for increased resources available for heritage in local authorities and increased funding through various initiatives.

As one of Ireland’s only intact 16th Century merchant houses, Rothe House and Garden holds a special place in Kilkenny’s rich tapestry of heritage sites. The 16th Century merchant house is open as a visitor experience and boasts a unique Renaissance-style garden. It is heavily dependent on funding and grant-aid from local and state bodies in order to fulfil its mission ‘to protect, conserve and promote the site for the benefit of local and wider audiences’.

Ms Mulrooney thanked Deputy Noonan for his efforts in championing heritage during his time in office and took the opportunity to share with him the board’s plans for ensuring the preservation of this important National Monument for the education and enjoyment of future generations.

Rothe House Trust operates Rothe House & Garden on Parliament St in Kilkenny. The 16th century merchant house is open as a visitor experience and boasts a unique Renaissance-style garden; a gift shop featuring Irish made goods from designers, crafters and makers around the country; a genealogy research base for Kilkenny city and county and a host of
intimate and original event spaces for venue hire.