Rothe House

Rothe House

Rothe House is located in Kilkenny City, County Kilkenny, Ireland. It is a unique 16th-century Irish merchant’s residence. The house was commissioned by the wealthy Elizabethan merchant John Rothe Fitz-Piers and built between 1594 and 1610. The house showcases medieval and Renaissance architectural styles, consisting of three houses, three enclosed courtyards to accommodate family needs, and a reconstructed large garden with an orchard.

At the time, Rothe was one of the most important and influential merchants in the area and was also involved in politics. His family, along with about ten other households, controlled the economy of Kilkenny throughout the 15th and 16th centuries. However, the house was confiscated by the British invading government in the 17th century. After the defeat of England by Charles I and following the Restoration of Charles II, the house was returned to the Rothe family due to their involvement in the Kilkenny Confederation.

Today, Rothe House is a historic monument and tourist attraction in Kilkenny, and it is listed as an important archaeological site within the city. In the 1994 Kilkenny Building Heritage Survey, Rothe House was included in the National Inventory of Architectural Heritage. Now, the house serves as the headquarters of the Kilkenny Archaeological Society, as well as its library and museum. The museum houses a collection of period costumes and a genealogical research center related to the heritage and history of Kilkenny City. Most of the artifacts are either locally discovered or donated to the Kilkenny Archaeological Society by local citizens.

Rothe House

Must-visit reason: One of the best-preserved 16th-century buildings in Kilkenny

Continent where the attraction is located: Europe【Europe】

Country/Region where the attraction is located: Ireland[Ireland]

Province/State where the attraction is located: County Kilkenny [County Kilkenny]

City where the attraction is located: Kilkenny [Kilkenny]