A priceless record of some of the most important archaeological finds and renovations from medieval Kilkenny has found a new home in the city’s Rothe House. The family of the esteemed Kilkenny architect, artist and conservation architect Colm O’Cochlain has generously donated his comprehensive collection of records, drawings, scrapbooks, visitor books, and photographic albums to the Kilkenny Archaeological Society. Read next: 'In awe of their dedication' - Kilkenny students lead inspiring community projects ABOVE: Mary T Brennan, Angela Moylan O’Reilly and Mary Keneally perusing the archives of esteemed Kilkenny architect, artist and conservation architect Colm O’Cochlain, which has been donated to the Kilkenny Archaeological Society by his family.All pictures: All Vicky Comerford This collection includes documentation of restoration projects, black-and-white sketches, published works, surveys, floor plans and watercolour paintings related to archaeological finds from the renovation of three iconic Kilkenny buildings: Kyteler’s Inn, the Shee Alms House, and the second and third buildings at Rothe House. Colm O’Cochlain’s passion for the medieval architecture of Kilkenny is evident in his drawings, and the Kilkenny Archaeological Society is privileged to receive these invaluable materials. Click the arrows above to read on and see lots more photographs...placeholder image
A priceless record of some of the most important archaeological finds and renovations from medieval Kilkenny has found a new home in the city’s Rothe House. The family of the esteemed Kilkenny architect, artist and conservation architect Colm O’Cochlain has generously donated his comprehensive collection of records, drawings, scrapbooks, visitor books, and photographic albums to the Kilkenny Archaeological Society. Read next: 'In awe of their dedication' - Kilkenny students lead inspiring community projects ABOVE: Mary T Brennan, Angela Moylan O’Reilly and Mary Keneally perusing the archives of esteemed Kilkenny architect, artist and conservation architect Colm O’Cochlain, which has been donated to the Kilkenny Archaeological Society by his family.All pictures: All Vicky Comerford This collection includes documentation of restoration projects, black-and-white sketches, published works, surveys, floor plans and watercolour paintings related to archaeological finds from the renovation of three iconic Kilkenny buildings: Kyteler’s Inn, the Shee Alms House, and the second and third buildings at Rothe House. Colm O’Cochlain’s passion for the medieval architecture of Kilkenny is evident in his drawings, and the Kilkenny Archaeological Society is privileged to receive these invaluable materials. Click the arrows above to read on and see lots more photographs...

'Treasure trove' of incredible documents donated to Kilkenny archive

Sian Moloughney
By Sian Moloughney

Reporter

Published 22nd Mar 2026, 22:33 GMT

Family of esteemed architect makes presentation to Kilkenny Archaeological Society

Additionally, his involvement in establishing and managing Kilkenny’s cultural festivals, including those associated with the Kilkenny Art Festival, is also represented in this donation to the society.A small reception honouring the O’Cochlain family was held at Rothe House on Tuesday, February 17, to facilitate the transfer of these significant archives. Fonsie Mealy, the President of the Kilkenny Archaeological Society, expressed formal gratitude to the family. This was followed by Ann Tierney, Hon. Librarian, and a detailed overview of the archives, on display, by Dr. Mary T Brennan, who is currently curating this valuable collection. TAP HERE FOR MORE WHAT'S ON IN KILKENNY Other attendees at the ceremony included members of the Council, Honorary Curator Philip Kenny and the General Manager of Rothe House, Valerie O’Sullivan. Seamus Brennan, Maura Keneally and Colm O’Cochlain

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Additionally, his involvement in establishing and managing Kilkenny’s cultural festivals, including those associated with the Kilkenny Art Festival, is also represented in this donation to the society.A small reception honouring the O’Cochlain family was held at Rothe House on Tuesday, February 17, to facilitate the transfer of these significant archives. Fonsie Mealy, the President of the Kilkenny Archaeological Society, expressed formal gratitude to the family. This was followed by Ann Tierney, Hon. Librarian, and a detailed overview of the archives, on display, by Dr. Mary T Brennan, who is currently curating this valuable collection. TAP HERE FOR MORE WHAT'S ON IN KILKENNY Other attendees at the ceremony included members of the Council, Honorary Curator Philip Kenny and the General Manager of Rothe House, Valerie O’Sullivan. Seamus Brennan, Maura Keneally and Colm O’Cochlain

Mary T Brennan, Philip Kenny and Anne Lannon

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Mary T Brennan, Philip Kenny and Anne Lannon

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Valerie O’Sullivan, Fonsie Mealy, President of the Kilkenny Archaeological Society and Ann Tierney at the Kilkenny Archaeological Society reception

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Valerie O’Sullivan, Fonsie Mealy, President of the Kilkenny Archaeological Society and Ann Tierney at the Kilkenny Archaeological Society reception

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