Museum

The museum at Rothe House contains a variety of artefacts of archaeological and historical interest, most of them found locally or donated by citizens of Kilkenny to the Kilkenny Archaeological Society.

Our collection of artefacts appears on rotation throughout each year and includes pewter ware, stone axe heads, a Viking sword, old prints, plan of the old Kilkenny Theatre and much more.

A collection of quern or millstones can also be seen in the second courtyard.

The Phelan Room (named to remember Mrs Margaret Phelan of the KAS)

This room contains a number of paintings, 18th century furniture, and a fine example of the skeleton of a Giant Irish Deer.

The Lanigan Room (named for Mrs Katherine Lanigan)

This room contains the KAS’ exhibition which provides fossils, stone axe heads, flints and other fascinating artefacts on display with new lighting and information panels.

Conservation of a Medieval Roof Beam

This beam was found in Potters’ Shop on High Street and presented to the Kilkenny Archaeological Society. With the assistance of a bequest left by a member of the KAS Council, the beam was conserved by Conservation Letterfrack in County Galway. It is a magnificent Oak beam, with delicate carvings, and  estimated to be late medieval.