Medieval Mile Museum

Located on the 13th century site of St Mary’s cruciform church and graveyard (considered to be the finest example of a medieval church in Ireland), The Medieval Mile Museum represents an immense treasure trove of artefacts encompassing the work and lives of Ireland and its people across more than 800 years of history. Visitors to the museum will marvel not only at some of Ireland’s finest examples of medieval sculpture, but also the country’s largest collection of Renaissance tombs.

Following a five-year excavation and renovation, highlights of the visit include the incredibly ornate Rothe Chapel with exposed tombs belonging to the medieval merchant Rothe family; St Marys graveyard where only the wealthiest could be buried and its abundance of medieval masterpieces; the stories of the multiple pauper graves discovered outside the church walls and the High Cross casts - reaching over 4 metres high that were originally commissioned by the High Kings of Ossory.

Kilkenny’s 800-year story is told with a contemporary twist within the museum. The visitor experience includes a long colourful interactive table exploring the landmarks along the Medieval Mile (similar to a giant iPad), an elongated plasma screen depicts the historical timeline of Kilkenny and projected imagery onto a giant wall allows visitors to get immersed in the rich history in a highly engaging way,  with the aid of modern technology.

Secondary Schools

Here at the Medieval Mile Museum, students will have the opportunity to explore the significance of this stunningly renovated St Mary’s Church on Kilkenny’s Medieval Mile.  We have a range of tailored package options available for Secondary School students, including guided tours and ongoing project-based packages  

Guided Tour €7 per student
A one hour tour of the museum, Student Activity Sheets to complete and unlimited time at the museum.

Self-guided Tour - €5 per student
A 10 minute introduction from the Museum Guide, Student Activity Sheets to complete and unlimited time at the museum

Teachers Resource Pack
Designed for secondary school students, these comprehensive resources include lesson plans and activity sheets and offer insights into the medieval world, suggestions for further study and classroom learning to support historical inquiry at senior level. This resource pack has been developed as an information pack for secondary school teachers. In here you will find everything you need to know about planning your trip, fact sheets and much more. Downloadable Teachers Pack

Pre-booking is essential - visit our website for more information on our School Tour Packages.

Family Days Out:

The Museum is a great place to visit with the entire family. Let our guides take you through 800 years of Kilkenny’s rich history while the kids enjoy our insanely popular LEGO Hunt!